In making a determination of whether there is a likelihood of serious harm in a hearing conducted under RCW 71.05.240 or 71.05.320, the court shall give great weight to any evidence before the court regarding whether the person has: (1) A recent history of one or more violent acts; or (2) a recent history of one or more commitments under this chapter or its equivalent provisions under the laws of another state which were based on a likelihood of serious harm. The existence of prior violent acts or commitments under this chapter or its equivalent shall not be the sole basis for determining whether a person presents a likelihood of serious harm.

     For the purposes of this section "recent" refers to the period of time not exceeding three years prior to the current hearing.

[1999 c 13 § 6; 1998 c 297 § 14.]

NOTES:

     Purpose -- Construction -- 1999 c 13: See note following RCW 10.77.010.

     Effective dates -- Severability -- Intent -- 1998 c 297: See notes following RCW 71.05.010.