OLYMPIA — Sen. Matt Boehnke and Sen. Nikki Torres have introduced a comprehensive package of legislation to close dangerous gaps in Washington’s handling of less restrictive alternative (LRA) placements for sexually violent predators, prioritizing the safety of families, neighborhoods, and children across the state.
“These are not abstract policy debates; they affect real neighborhoods, real families, and real kids,” Boehnke, R–Kennewick, said. “When the state places sexually violent predators into residential areas, sometimes near schools and parks, the consequences become local and immediate. Our communities deserve stronger protections than what currently exists.”
“These individuals were civilly committed because courts determined they pose a serious danger,” Torres, R–Pasco, said. “Releasing them into communities near schools, playgrounds, and places where kids gather, without firm limits and strong oversight, puts public safety at risk. This legislation draws clear lines and makes sure safety comes first.”
The measures follow growing public concern and recent investigative reporting that exposed serious weaknesses in Washington’s LRA system. A 2024 investigation by Seattle Times found that roughly one in four individuals released from civil commitment were later arrested for new crimes, and one in seven reoffended in a serious way — including sexual offenses. Even placements with supervision have recorded hundreds of violations statewide over the past decade, raising concerns about enforcement, transparency, and accountability.
Boehnke and Torres are sponsoring a coordinated package of Senate bills, each with House companion legislation, designed to tighten placement standards, strengthen supervision, and ensure communities are informed before high-risk placements occur.
The package includes:
Senate Bill 6301 (House companion HB 2635) — Strengthens supervision requirements for LRAs, including enhanced electronic monitoring, enforceable safety conditions, fair-share placement standards, and a requirement that supervising Department of Corrections officers be located within 50 miles of the placement.
Senate Bill 6317 (House companion HB 2665) — Requires advance notification to local law enforcement, county officials, and area legislators before a property is finalized for use as an LRA.
Senate Bill 6334 (House companion HB 2687) — Prohibits LRA placements from abutting residences with minors and strengthens proximity restrictions around schools and child care facilities.
Senate Bill 6336 (House companion HB 2693) — Prohibits LRA placements in areas with a high concentration of children, based on verified adult-to-child ratios.
Senate Bill 6337 (House companion HB 2694) — Bars placements within 500 feet of, or within sight lines of, schools, child care centers, and other youth-focused facilities.
Senate Bill 6338 (House companion HB 2698) — Requires courts to formally consider and respond to recommendations from local prosecutors before approving an LRA placement.
Senate Bill 6339 (House companion HB 2696) — Requires LRA residences to be owned and operated by the same individuals responsible for treatment and monitoring.
Senate Bill 6340 (House companion HB 2654) — Expands distance requirements around schools, parks, and recreational facilities to one-half mile.
Together, the bills reinforce a clear principle: individuals civilly committed as sexually violent predators should not be placed near children or family neighborhoods, and communities deserve transparency, accountability, and meaningful safeguards before any placement occurs.
Boehnke and Torres said they will continue working with local officials, law enforcement, and lawmakers in both chambers to advance the legislation and restore public confidence in the system.
“Public safety decisions shouldn’t happen quietly or without accountability,” Boehnke said. “This package puts the needs of communities first. exactly where they belong.”
The 60-day 2026 legislative session began Monday, Jan. 12, and will conclude March 12.
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