Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1247

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: Concerning eligibility for lifetime veteran's disability passes.

Sponsors: Representatives McCabe, Kilduff, Muri, Caldier, Wylie, Dent, Tarleton, Haler, Stanford, Appleton, McBride and Young.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Makes Oregon resident disabled veterans eligible for the Lifetime Veteran Disability Pass if Oregon provides reciprocal cost-free state park access to Washington disabled veterans.

Hearing Date: 2/2/17

Staff: Sean Flynn (786-7124).

Background:

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks) charges admission and camping fees for state park access. Under the park passes program, the State Parks issues different park passes for specially designated groups that qualify for discounts or exemptions from park fees. The Lifetime Veteran Disability Pass entitles any state resident who is a veteran with at least a 30 percent service-related disability to free admission to any state park and waiver of any campsite fees.

Summary of Bill:

An Oregon resident who is a veteran with at least a 30 percent service-related disability is eligible for the Lifetime Veteran Disability Pass, provided that Oregon gives reciprocal cost-free state park access to Washington resident disabled veterans.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.