FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Board’s mission?

In 2008, the Legislature passed SSB 6596 to establish the Sex Offender Policy Board (Board). The Legislature’s intent was to promote a coordinated and integrated response to sex offender management and create an entity to respond to issues that arise in a way that enhances the state’s interest in protecting the community with an emphasis on public safety. The Board holds an advisory position when convened and does not have the authority to make or change state laws or policies.

How does the Board receive an assignment? What topics can the Board work on?

Per RCW 9.94A.8673, the Board can only meet when convened on an assignment from the Governor and/or Legislature (and with some special exceptions in accordance with our bylaws). When convened, the Board can only work on the topic that is assigned in the convention.

Who serves on the Board?

RCW 9.94A.8673 designates the membership of the Board in statute. The Board consists of 13 voting members with special expertise on sex offense issues. Please see the Members page for a list of the Board’s current membership.

When does the Board meet?

Per RCW 9.94A.8673, the Board can only meet when convened on an assignment from the Governor and/or Legislature (with some special exceptions in accordance with the bylaws). Please see the Meetings page for details on upcoming meetings.

How can I attend an upcoming meeting?

All Board meetings are hybrid meetings. A zoom link is made available for the public and a physical location is published in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Please see the Meetings page for details on upcoming meetings.

How can I address the Board?

Comments emailed to sopb@ofm.wa.gov will be shared with the Board. Time for public comment is provided during meetings in accordance with our bylaws [link] and the Open Public Meetings Act.

Where can I find the Board’s previous recommendations?

You can view the Board’s prior recommendations and publications on the Publications page.

Where can I access victim services?

You may find these resources helpful:

Where can I find resources for treatment?

For adult treatment services, please see the Washington Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse’s (WATSA) website:

For juvenile treatment services, please see WATSA’s website:

For victim services, these resources may be helpful:

Does the Board supervise individuals?

No, the Board does not supervise individuals.

Does the Board determine or manage registration requirements, notification requirements or an individual’s risk level?

The Board does not determine registration requirements or notification requirements for the state or any individual. The Board also does not determine an individual’s risk level or classification. The Board serves to advise the governor and/or Legislature on issues related to Washington’s sex offender management system and makes policy recommendations when convened.

Where can I find out about registration requirements?

For information regarding the requirements for individuals convicted of a sex offense, please see Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chief’s (WASPC) website: Sex Offender Information

Does the Board offer legal advice or advocate for individual cases?

No. The Board cannot provide interpretations of state statutes and does not advocate for individuals. In these cases, reaching out to the Office of Public Defense is recommended.

How can I get involved with the Board/?

Upcoming meeting information can be accessed on the Meetings page. If you are interested in receiving correspondence from the Board, you can request to be added to our listserv at sopb@ofm.wa.gov.