HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                     HB 2455

Brief Description:  Limiting the authority of the department of corrections to contract with attorneys for the provision of legal services in correctional facilities.

Sponsors:  Representatives Chandler, B., and Ballasiotes

Hearing:  January 25, 2000

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Corrections is required to contract with persons or organizations to provide legal services to offenders who are committed to the custody of the Department of Corrections.  The Secretary may supplement contracted legal services with law libraries, law student interns, and volunteer attorneys.   Providers of legal services must attempt to resolve disputes informally before filing legal action.  Amounts due under the contract are reduced by any amounts otherwise received by the contractor for the performance of legal services to offenders during the contract period.

SUMMARY OF BILL:

The Secretary is prohibited from contracting with attorneys to provide legal services at a correctional facility if law libraries, law student interns, or volunteer attorneys are available at that facility.

FISCAL NOTE:  Requested January 19, 2000.

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.