HB 2556-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Establishes a joint task force on criminal background check processes.

Directs the task force to review and make recommendations to the legislature and the governor regarding the criminal background check process.

Requires the task force to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature by December 31, 2004.

Provides that, in consultation with the Washington state patrol, the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs shall conduct a study on criminal history record information background check technology and systems. The study shall focus on how, through the use of modern technology, Washington state can reduce delays in the criminal history record information background check processing time and how Washington state can make criminal history record information background checks more accessible and efficient.

Provides that the study shall include, but is not limited to: (1) A review and analysis of the criminal background check programs in states that have recently implemented or are soon to implement comprehensive criminal background check programs.

(2) Recommendations on how a comprehensive criminal background check program should be designed in Washington state, and how much a comprehensive program would cost to implement in Washington state.

(3) A review of how a comprehensive criminal background check program could be paid for in Washington state, which includes a determination on whether the program could be funded solely by user fees.

Provides that the findings and recommendations from the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs shall be presented to the joint task force no later than November 30, 2004.

Declares that the requirement to perform the study under this act and to make findings and recommendations is subject to availability of funds appropriated for this specific purpose.

VETO MESSAGE ON HB 2556-S

March 22, 2004

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,

The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 1, Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 2556 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to studying criminal background check processes;"

This bill creates a joint task force to study criminal background check policies and procedures and make recommendations to improve those systems and increase public safety.

Section 1 was an introductory section that was not necessary to support the creation or work of the joint task force. It would have given an inaccurate view of the current criminal history record information background check data transmission infrastructure and process. Taken out of context, this language could have been misunderstood and used to indicate an admission of liability when none exists. To avoid the inadvertent misuse of this language, I have vetoed section 1.

For these reasons, I have vetoed section 1 of Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 2556.

With the exception of section 1, Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 2556 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Gary Locke

Governor