561FE3788352C964872582320070F45F Hearing Summary

Senator Gardner called the meeting to order. 

Senator Gardner noted that the first bill on the agenda, SB18-017 concerning determinate sentence for indeterminate sex offenses, is a for action only item.

Senator Lundberg expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to work on an amendment to the bill.  He explained that the amendment addresses some of the constitutional concerns raised by district attorneys (Attachment A). 

Senator Lundberg encouraged the committee to vote for his bill, as amended.  He reported that treatment for sex offenders in prison has proven to be inadequate.  He emphasized that the court should have the ability to look at individual cases and determine if an indeterminate sentence is appropriate or not. 

Committee members presented their reasons in support of or opposition to the bill. 

The committee discussed funding for more sex offender treatment within the Department of Corrections.  Concerns were raised about sex offender treatment in relation to systemic issues and geographically difficult places to reach.