Green Bill Adding Protections for Victims Clears Senate Unanimously

March 5, 2008

OLYMPIA – A bill sponsored by Rep. Tami Green (D-Lakewood) which provides better protections to crime victims was passed unanimously by the Washington State Senate on Tuesday. 

“The Address Confidentiality Program has been successful, helping alleviate the fears of many victims” explained Rep. Green.  “With such overwhelming support in both chambers, we have all helped improve it.”

The Address Confidentiality Program currently allows victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking to substitute a mailing address with an alternative mailing address.  SHB 1421 changes the definition of stalking to include the threat of being stalked, even if the victim was afraid to contact law enforcement.

"This program makes sure crime victims can participate in the political process," said Green.  "The  bill makes sure that those who are threatened by a stalker, and fear discovery, aren't also afraid to vote."

The measure also makes it tougher to obtain a victim’s records if the crime was perpetrated by a law enforcement employee.

“The bill makes sure a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, and opts to participate in the Address Confidentiality Program, does not have to fear unnecessary access to his or her personal information,” stated Green.

SHB 1421 will be forwarded to the governor for further consideration.