HOUSE BILL REPORT

EHB 1876

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Summary of Engrossed Bill

Allows owners of vehicles under 10,000 gross weight to make a voluntary donation of $5 at time of initial or renewal registration.
Establishes the Disabled Veterans Assistance Account.

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 26 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Liias, Vice Chair; Roach, Ranking Minority Member; Rodne, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Campbell, Cox, Driscoll, Eddy, Ericksen, Finn, Flannigan, Herrera, Johnson, Klippert, Kristiansen, Moeller, Morris, Rolfes, Sells, Shea, Simpson, Springer, Takko, Wallace, Williams and Wood.

Background:

The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) is a Governor cabinet-level agency that provides assistance and services to veterans and dependents of veterans. The agency accepts grants, donations, and gifts from any person, corporation, government, or governmental agency, made in behalf of a former member of the armed forces.

Summary of Engrossed Bill:

The Department of Licensing must provide an opportunity for owners of vehicles, which include passenger vehicles, motorcycles, motor homes, travel trailers, trucks and non-commercial trailers under 10,000 pounds gross weight, to make a voluntary $5 donation to be deposited to the newly-created Disabled Veterans Assistance Account (Account). The donation can be made at the time of a vehicle's initial or renewal registration with registrations due or becoming due on or after January 1, 2010.

The DVA may also request and accept non-dedicated contributions, grants, or gifts in cash or otherwise. All moneys deposited into the Account must be used by the DVA for activities that benefit veterans including, but not limited to, providing programs and services that assist veterans with the procurement of durable medical equipment, mobility enhancing equipment, emergency home or vehicle repair, or emergency food or emergency shelter. The first priority for assistance provided through the Account must be given to veterans who are experiencing a financial hardship and do not qualify for other federal or state veterans programs and services. Funds from the Account may not be used to supplant existing funds received by the DVA.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) The bill provides an opportunity for citizens to make a voluntary donation of $5 to the Account when a person registers their vehicle. In Washington, for every seven citizens, there is one veteran. Presently the money in the Account must be used for, but is not limited to, providing programs and services that assist disabled veterans with the purchase of medical or mobility equipment. The Legislature may also want to look at funding other needs over time.

(Opposed) None.