Tri-Cities lawmakers send letter to Gov. Ferguson, state leaders urging halt of proposed sexually violent predator housing in Kennewick

Tri-Cities lawmakers are urging state leaders to pause consideration of a proposed less restrictive alternative (LRA) housing placement for sexually violent predators in a residential Kennewick neighborhood.

In a letter delivered today to Gov. Bob Ferguson, Attorney General Nick Brown, Department of Social and Health Services Secretary Angela Ramirez and Department of Corrections Secretary Tim Lang, Sen. Matt Boehnke, Rep. April Connors, Rep. Stephanie Barnard and Sen. Nikki Torres raise concerns about the proposed placement.

The lawmakers note the site sits near multiple schools, parks and youth-centered facilities and argue the proposal highlights broader shortcomings in Washington’s current framework for siting LRA facilities. They are urging the state to pause consideration of the placement while the siting process and applicable standards are reviewed and to work with local governments to establish clearer safeguards for communities.

The full letter can be read here or viewed below:

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov