SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1657
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. |
As of March 4, 2011
Title: An act relating to the statute of limitations on certain sex offenses.
Brief Description: Removing the statute of limitations for certain sex offenses.
Sponsors: Representatives Ahern, McCune, Miloscia, Hurst, Hope, Rivers and Kelley.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/01/11, 98-0.
Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections:
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS |
Staff: Kevin Black (786-7747)
Background: Washington law provides for statutes of limitation for the prosecution of various crimes. Certain crimes, including murder, homicide by abuse, arson if death results, and vehicular homicide, may be prosecuted at anytime after their commission.
The crimes of rape in the first or second degree may be prosecuted for ten years after the commission of the act if the victim reports the rape to a law enforcement agency within one year of its commission; except that, if the victim is under 14 years old, the crimes may be prosecuted until the victim's 28th birthday. If the victim did not report the rape within one year of its commission, the crime may be prosecuted for three years; except that, if the victim was under 14 years of age, the crime may be prosecuted for three years after the victim's 18th birthday or seven years after the commission, whichever is later.
The crimes of rape of a child in the first or second degree may be prosecuted up to the victim's 28th birthday.
Summary of Bill: The crimes of rape in the first or second degree may be prosecuted at any time after their commission if the victim is under the age of 18 at the time the crime is committed. The crimes of rape of a child in the first or second degree may be prosecuted at any time after their commission.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.