O'CONNELL v. Conte

This is an original proceeding to obtain a writ of mandamus addressed to the respondent, William R. Conte, Director of the Washington State Department of Institutions, directing him to cease and desist from taking any further action in the administration and enforcement of any of the provisions of Laws of 1967, ch. 141, on the grounds of their alleged contravention of our state and federal constitutions.

By Laws of 1967, ch. 141, the Washington state legislature amended Laws, of 1959, ch. 28, codified as RCW 72.33, by adding the new sections RCW 72.33.650-.700 which impose liability for the…