SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5596

BYSenators 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 5, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY, MARCH 5, 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 solicits in a retail establishment or other public place any kind of compensation for his or her benefit without providing a benefit in return.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The prohibition against solicitation only applies if a law enforcement officer, the management of a retail establishment, or the person being solicited instructs the person not to so solicit.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

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