Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Public Safety Committee

HB 1184

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Modifying patronizing a prostitute provisions.

Sponsors: Representatives Orwall, Griffey, Klippert, McCabe, Senn, Gregerson, Pellicciotti, Jinkins, Irwin, Wylie, Kilduff, McBride, Bergquist, Fey, Smith, Stanford and Hudgins.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Modifies the crime of Patronizing a Prostitute by specifying that the crime can be committed in any location in which the defendant commits any act that constitutes part of the crime.

Hearing Date: 1/16/17

Staff: Kelly Leonard (786-7147).

Background:

A person is guilty of Patronizing a Prostitute if:

Patronizing a Prostitute is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor carries a maximum punishment of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Summary of Bill:

The crime of Patronizing a Prostitute may be committed in more than one location. The crime is deemed to have been committed in any location in which the defendant commits any act that constitutes part of the crime. A person who sends a communication to patronize a prostitute is considered to have committed the crime both at the place from which the contact was made and where the communication is received.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 12, 2017.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.