SB 5356 - DIGEST

     Requires that, if the offense is not one for which the conviction results in the offender's being a persistent offender, the court shall, at the time of sentencing, impose as a condition of release such treatment, including the use of medroxyprogesterone acetate, or a comparable chemical, together with any other mental health or chemical dependency treatment, as the court finds appropriate to reduce the likelihood of the offender's commission of a subsequent sex offense upon release.

     Provides that at least thirty days before the department sets a release date for an offender who has had a treatment regimen imposed as a condition of release, the offender must be brought back before the court for a hearing, including an examination by medical experts, for the purpose of determining whether to impose the regimen.

     Provides that an offender may at any time seek early termination of a treatment regimen imposed under this subsection, but an early termination may not be granted unless, by clear and convincing evidence, the offender proves that the offender no longer has a mental abnormality, as defined in RCW 71.09.020, and that a continued treatment regimen is not necessary to prevent the offender's commission of a predatory act, as defined in RCW 71.09.020.

     Provides that the offender may at any time agree to surgical alternatives to medroxyprogesterone acetate or a comparable chemical treatment if the offender voluntarily, knowingly, and intelligently petitions the court in writing.

     Declares that an offender who unlawfully stops treatment imposed under this subsection is guilty of a class B felony.