SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1050

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.

As Reported by Senate Committee On:

Government Operations & Elections, March 16, 2009

Title: An act relating to veterans' scoring criteria.

Brief Description: Adjusting veterans' scoring criteria.

Sponsors: Representatives Kelley, Hope, Rolfes, Johnson, Angel, Dammeier, Conway, Ross, Hunt, Herrera, Smith, Armstrong, Moeller, Parker, Rodne, Haler, Short, Shea, Chase, Morrell, Green, Sullivan, Newhouse, Upthegrove, Campbell, Kristiansen, Van De Wege, Wallace, Simpson, Bailey, Maxwell, McCune and Condotta; by request of Joint Committee on Veterans' and Military Affairs.

Brief History: Passed House: 1/26/09, 96-0.

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 3/16/09 [DP, w/oRec].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Fairley, Chair; Oemig, Vice Chair; McDermott and Pridemore.

Minority Report: That it be referred without recommendation.

Signed by Senator Roach, Ranking Minority Member.

Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)

Background: State law provides that honorably discharged veterans receive preference in public employment. In all competitive examinations for state and local public employment, veterans are given a scoring criteria (a percentage) to be added to a passing score. The added percentage varies based on the veteran's status. A veteran who served during a period of war or armed conflict, and does not receive military retirement, is eligible for 10 percent preference. A veteran who did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict, or is receiving military retirement, is eligible for a 5 percent preference. A veteran who is called to active military service for one or more years from employment with the state is eligible for a 5 percent preference for the first promotional examination.

Summary of Bill: Public employees called to active military service may receive the 5 percent scoring preference on promotion examinations, regardless of how long the employee serves in active service.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Veterans' Legislative Coalition supports this bill and encourages the committee to pass it.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Dale Movius, Veterans' Legislative Coalition.