SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6067

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 January 31, 2012

Title: An act relating to suspension and waiver of court assessments, fines, and penalties.

Brief Description: Suspending and waiving certain court assessments, fines, and penalties.

Sponsors: Senators Kline and Harper.

Committee Activity: Judiciary: 1/31/12.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

Staff: Katherine Taylor (786-7434)

Background: A district court may at the time of sentencing or at any time thereafter suspend a portion of or all of a fine or penalty.

A municipal court will have concurrent jurisdiction with the superior court and district court in all civil and criminal matters as now provided by law for district judges, and a judge thereof may sit in preliminary hearings as magistrate. Fines, penalties, and forfeitures before the court will be paid to the county treasurer as provided for district court and commitments will be in the county jail. Appeals from judgment or order of the court in such cases will be governed by the law pertaining to appeals from judgments or orders of district judges.

Summary of Bill: District and municipal courts must not suspend any fees, fines, or assessments imposed, which pertain to the following:

public safety and education assessments;
emergency medical services and trauma care system trust account;
Washington's auto theft prevention authority account;
certain legislative assessments; and
traumatic brain injury account.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 30, 2012.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: None.

Persons Testifying: No one.