Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Public Safety Committee |
SB 5277
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. |
Brief Description: Making the crime of patronizing a prostitute a gross misdemeanor.
Sponsors: Senators Kohl-Welles, Darneille, Padden, Pedersen, Fain, Frockt, Keiser, Chase and Fraser.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/23/16
Staff: Kelly Leonard (786-7147).
Background:
Patronizing a Prostitute. A person is guilty of Patronizing a Prostitute if he or she: (a) pays a fee, under a prior understanding, as compensation for another person having engaged in sexual conduct with him or her; (b) pays a fee to another person with the understanding that the person will engage in sexual conduct; or (c) solicits another person to engage in sexual conduct in exchange for a fee. Patronizing a Prostitute is a misdemeanor offense.
Classification of Crimes. Crimes are classified as misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, or felonies (of which there are class A, B, and C felonies). The classification of a crime generally determines the maximum term of confinement and/or fine a court can impose for an offense. For each classification, the maximum terms of confinement and maximum fines are as follows:
Classification | Maximum Confinement | Maximum Fine |
Misdemeanor | 90 days | $1,000 |
Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days | $5,000 |
Class C Felony | 5 years | $10,000 |
Class B Felony | 10 years | $20,000 |
Class A Felony | Life | $50,000 |
Summary of Bill:
Patronizing a Prostitute is increased to a gross misdemeanor.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.