Fagan’s bill passes to toughen predator treatment policies

The state House passed a bill March 6 that would modify evaluation and treatment policies for sexually violent predators. Rep. Susan Fagan, is the prime sponsor of the bill.

“This bill is crucial to personal safety and keeping our communities safe throughout the Ninth District and all of Washington,” said Fagan. “By providing judges additional information during the review process of sexually violent predators, I’m hopeful we can prevent dangerous offenders who have not received the appropriate treatment for their deviance from being prematurely released from McNeil Island.”

House Bill 1059 requires evidence from an expert on a sexually violent predator’s behalf to be excluded if that predator declines to participate in their annual review. It also redefines the treatment required and makes it specific to sex offenders.

“This bill has been in the works for two years, and I was grateful to gain the support of my colleagues in the House. I’m also thankful for the support of Sharon and Wes Clizer, and their efforts in getting this bill passed.”

During a public hearing for the bill in January, the Clizers of Clarkston testified in favor of the bill.

Fagan ran a similar bill during the 2014 session. While it advanced in the House Public Safety Committee, it stalled in the Appropriations Committee.

The bill now goes over to the Senate for consideration.

For more information about Rep. Fagan, visit http://www.representativesusanfagan.com.