In a move that has sparked controversy and debate, Democrats in the Washington state legislature have put forth a bill that aims to change the way sex offenders are defined and addressed. House Bill 2177, if passed, would rename the Sex Offender Policy Board (SOPB) to the Sex Offense Policy Board, and would also include a convicted sex offender as a member of the board. This inclusion is justified by proponents of the bill who argue that the offender’s “lived experiences” would provide valuable insights.
Under the proposed legislation, a representative with lived experience of incarceration for a sex offense would be appointed to the board by the chair of the sex offense policy board and approved by a majority vote of the board’s voting membership. Notably, the bill does not restrict board membership to Level One sex offenders, who are considered to be the least likely to recommit a sex offense. Instead, it allows Level Three offenders, who are considered the most dangerous, to serve on the board. Additionally, victims of sex crimes would also be added as new members.
The SOPB was established in 2008 with the aim of promoting a coordinated and integrated response to sex offender management. It was designed to address issues related to integrating state and federal laws in a way that prioritizes public safety. State Representative Tarra Simmons, a Democrat sponsoring the bill, believes that having a sex offender on the board alongside victims and their advocates would contribute to a more diverse legislature and provide valuable insights. Simmons herself served time for felony convictions in 2011.
Supporters of the bill, including SOPB chair Brad Meryhew, argue that it would bring a necessary reality check to the board’s decision-making processes. They believe that the voices and perspectives of sex offenders can offer unique insights that can guide policy-making in this area. However, Republican state Representative Dan Griffey opposes the measure and questions why the board would advocate for a sex offender.
During a hearing on the bill, SOPB coordinator Whitney Hunt defended the proposed change, stating that it aligns with best practices and research and embraces a person-first approach. The goal is to destigmatize sex offenders and acknowledge all individuals involved and impacted by the sex offense management system, including victims.
This latest effort by Washington state Democrats to destigmatize sex offenders follows previous attempts to release them from prison. In 2021, Democrats passed legislation to facilitate the conditional release of sexually violent predators across the state, including encouraging their participation in outpatient treatment programs. State Senator Christine Rolfes, a Democrat who sponsored the bill, argued that it was about allowing potentially dangerous individuals to reintegrate into communities while protecting their constitutional liberties.
In 2022, the SOPB recommended lifting a rule that prohibited placing Less Restrictive Alternatives within 500 feet of a childcare facility. The board argued that there was no evidence to suggest an increased risk associated with proximity to housing for individuals who have committed sexual offenses.
The proposed changes have sparked concerns and raised questions about the potential implications and consequences of including sex offenders on the SOPB. This controversial bill will continue to be debated as lawmakers consider its potential impact on the management of sex offenses and the protection of the community.
