Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 2343

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: Allowing for a veteran designation on drivers' licenses and identicards.

Sponsors: Representatives Muri, Sawyer, Orcutt, Seaquist, Zeiger, Hargrove, Ryu, Reykdal, Morrell, Hayes, Orwall and Magendanz.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows a person to indicate his or her status as a veteran of the United States military on his or her driver's license or identicard.

Hearing Date: 1/22/14

Staff: Andrew Russell (786-7143).

Background:

The Department of Licensing (DOL) issues driver's licenses and identicards to residents of Washington. To obtain a license or identicard, a person must apply to the DOL and pay the required fee. Thereafter, the DOL may issue a license or identicard which provides certain information about the holder, such as his or her physical description, anatomical gift statement, Washington residence address, and signature.

Summary of Bill:

A person may elect to indicate his or her status as a veteran of the United States military on his or her driver's license or identicard. To do so, the applicant must provide his or her United States Department of Defense discharge document that shows a discharge status as "honorable" or "general under honorable conditions."

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 16, 2014.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect July 1, 2016.