FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 6308

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

House Committee on Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness

Background: Persons who are found to be sexually violent predators are committed to the custody of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) for control, care, and individualized treatment. Most sexually violent predators are currently housed at the Special Commitment Center (SCC) on McNeil Island.DSHS has imposed a variety of restrictions on residents of the SCC with respect to computer usage. For example, the residents may only purchase one type of computer, which has been approved by DSHS. The computer is not capable of reading thumbnail drives and is only capable of reading (not writing) compact discs. The computer does not have wireless Internet access or a modem, which means that the residents are not capable of accessing the Internet while in the SCC.In April 2007, a resident of the SCC was found to be in possession of contraband pornography in violation of SCC rules and the resident's sex offender treatment plan.

Summary: A resident of the SCC is prohibited from accessing or possessing a personal computer if the resident's treatment plan states that access to a computer is harmful to bringing about a positive response to a phase or course of treatment. A person who is prohibited from accessing or possessing a personal computer is permitted to access a limited functioning device only capable of word processing and limited data storage.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	47	0
House	97	1	(House amended)
Senate	48	0	(Senate concurred)