Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HB 1369
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 Description: Defining veteran for the purpose of receiving certain benefits.
Sponsors: Representatives Hayes, Muri, Kilduff, Appleton and Lovick.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/2/17
Staff: Kirsten Lee (786-7133).
Background:
The definition of "veteran" is used as an eligibility requirement for various benefits, including free license plate decals, license plates for disabled veterans and prisoners of war, admission to state soldiers' and veterans' homes, veterans' scoring preference on civil service exams, and veteran homeownership down payment assistance program.
For purposes of these benefits, a veteran is a person who has received an honorable discharge or received a discharge for medical reasons with an honorable record, and who has served in at least one of the following capacities:
as a member in any branch of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Armed Forces Reserves, and has fulfilled his or her initial military service obligation;
as a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots;
as a member of the Armed Forces Reserves, National Guard, or Coast Guard and called into federal service for at least 180 cumulative days;
as a civil service crew member aboard a United States Army or naval transport service vessel in oceangoing service from December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946;
as a member of the Philippine Armed Forces/Scouts from December 7, 1941, through August 15, 1945; or
a United States documented merchant mariner with service aboard an oceangoing vessel operated by the Department of Defense or its agents from June 25, 1950, through July 27, 1952, in Korean territorial waters and from August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975, in Vietnam territorial waters, and who received a military commendation.
Summary of Bill:
The definition of "veteran" used to qualify persons for particular benefits is expanded to include a person who, at the time he or she seeks the benefits, is in receipt of separation orders or documents that characterize his or her service as honorable.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.