SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6172

BYSenators Kiskaddon, Talmadge, Bailey and Garrett

Changing reporting requirements for witnesses of violent crimes and child abuse and assault.

Senate Committee on Law & Justice

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 1, 1988

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6172 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Pullen, Chairman; Halsan, Hayner, Madsen, Nelson, Niemi, Talmadge.

Senate Staff:Jeanne Cushman Scott (786-7461)

                  February 1, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE, FEBRUARY 1, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Many crimes against persons go unreported.  The problem of discovering crimes against children is particularly difficult as children are generally incapable of reporting crime against themselves or others without assistance.  Means of facilitating crime reporting are sought.

SUMMARY:

Child Protective Services is added to the list of possible agencies to be notified by a person who witnesses the assault of a child that appears reasonably likely to cause substantial bodily harm to the child.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

A witness to an assault of a child need report the crime to only one of the agencies listed, not all agencies listed.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: no one