SENATE BILL REPORT

ESSB 5596

BYSenate Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Senators Vognild, Bailey, Moore, Rasmussen and Stratton)

Prescribing penalties for vagrancy.

Senate Committee on Judiciary

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 2, 1987; March 5, 1987

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5596 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Talmadge, Chairman; Halsan, Vice Chairman; Bottiger, McCaslin, Moore, Nelson, Newhouse.

Senate Staff:Jon Carlson (786-7459)

                  March 19, 1987

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 18, 1987

BACKGROUND:

There are an increasing number of complaints with respect to individuals who panhandle on the streets in an aggressive manner, particularly in front of business establishments.  It is suggested that the disorderly conduct statute be amended to address this problem more effectively.

SUMMARY:

A person is guilty of a misdemeanor if he or she accosts other persons in any public place or in any place open to the public for the purpose of begging or soliciting alms.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Senator Vognild; Jerry Aaron, Everett Police Dept.