2003 Senate Bill 5570

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Introduced by Sen. Lisa Brown, (D-Spokane) (D) on January 30, 2003

To expand the crime of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes to include communicating with someone the perpetrator thinks is a minor. This bill is by request of the Attorney General. See also Companion HB 1225. Official Text and Analysis.

Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 30, 2003

Testimony in support offered to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 20, 2003

By Senator Brown; Christine Gregoire, Attorney General; Randy Carroll, Bellingham Police Dept.; Hush Birsenheier, Pierce County Deputy Prosecutor; and Leanne Shirley, Seattle Police Dept. They testified that predators are using the internet to target children; the internet is becoming the world's riskiest playground. These offenders can target large numbers of children without even leaving their homes. Children often do not tell their parents for fear that their computer will be taken away.

Testimony in opposition offered to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 20, 2003

By Michael Hanrey, WACDL. He testified the state and federal constitutions protect free speech on the internet when real children are not involved or harmed. These offenders can be presently charged with attempt to commit sex crimes
Testimony against: none offered.

Referred to the Senate Rules Committee on February 21, 2003

Passed 49 to 0 in the Senate on March 7, 2003.
See Who Voted "Yes" and Who Voted "No".

Regarding the crime of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes.

Received in the House on March 10, 2003

Referred to the House Judiciary Committee on March 10, 2003

Referred to the House Rules Committee on March 27, 2003

Passed 95 to 0 in the House on April 8, 2003.
See Who Voted "Yes" and Who Voted "No".

Signed by Gov. Gary Locke on April 16, 2003