(1) The department of corrections shall conduct an analysis of the necessary capacity throughout the state to appropriately confine offenders who violate community custody and formulate recommendations for future capacity. In conducting its analysis, the department must consider:

     (a) The need to decrease reliance on local correctional facilities to house violators; and

     (b) The costs and benefits of developing a violator treatment center to provide inpatient treatment, therapies, and counseling.

     (2) If the department recommends locating or colocating new violator facilities, for jurisdictions planning under RCW 36.70A.040, the department shall work within the local jurisdiction's comprehensive plan process for identifying and siting an essential public facility under RCW 36.70A.200. For jurisdictions not planning under RCW 36.70A.040, the department shall apply the local jurisdiction's zoning or applicable land use code.

     (3) The department shall report the results of its analysis to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature by November 15, 2008.

     (4) To the extent possible within existing funds, the department is authorized to proceed with the conversion of existing facilities that are appropriate to house violators.

[2008 c 30 § 1.]