Committee advances SB136 to finance after clarifying probation reduction process

The Senate Courts of Justice Committee on its first meeting took up SB136, a bill sponsored by Senator Craig that would clarify when a court may decrease a defendant’s probation period. Craig said the bill reflects the recommendations of a study work group and aims to streamline reductions to incentivize positive behavior on probation.

Counsel explained a set of line amendments intended to fix drafting glitches and to make clear that "the court may decrease the probation period upon such hearing or at any time without requiring a hearing if such decrease is warranted by the defendant's conduct." Joanne Fry (division counsel) told senators the amendments clarify language but do not change the bill’s purpose. Steve Benjamin, outside counsel, explained the bill removes an existing requirement that certain decreases may be allowed only after a hearing; the amendment permits decreases both at hearing and without a hearing in appropriate cases.

Members pressed on victim-notification safeguards and whether certain mandatory probation provisions are affected. Senator Stewart asked whether victims would be given notice; counsel pointed to a provision requiring the Department of Corrections to make efforts to notify victims and to the crime-victims-rights statute referenced in the bill.

After debate the committee adopted the line amendments by voice vote and then voted to report the bill and re-refer it to the Finance Committee. The clerk recorded the roll as "Ayes 13, No 2." The committee’s action moves the bill to the next stage for fiscal review.

The bill’s supporters described it as a reentry-focused measure to reward compliance; some members sought clarifying language and assurance that mandatory provisions and victim-notice requirements remain intact. The committee did not take a final floor vote on SB136 during this meeting.