HOUSE BILL REPORT

HB 1372

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 House Committee On:

Housing, Community Development & Veterans

Title: An act relating to the retirement age for state guard members.

Brief Description: Concerning the retirement age for state guard members.

Sponsors: Representatives Klippert and Ryu.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Housing, Community Development & Veterans: 1/30/19, 2/1/19 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Eliminates the age restriction for enlistment with the Washington State Guard.

  • Expands the Adjutant General's ability to extend the service age of an active member of the Washington State Guard beyond existing limits and under certain conditions.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HOUSING, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & VETERANS

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 8 members: Representatives Ryu, Chair; Gildon, Ranking Minority Member; Barkis, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Corry, Entenman, Frame, Leavitt and Reeves.

Staff: Cassie Jones (786-7303).

Background:

The Washington State Guard (Guard) is a military unit organized by the Washington State Military Department. Members of the Guard are volunteers and serve under the direction of the state's Adjutant General. Guard members are available to serve the Governor in place of the National Guard in the event that the National Guard in Washington is called into federal service. The Governor may also call the Guard into state service in other instances, including natural disasters, search and rescue, or recovery operations.

The period of enlistment in the Guard is set by rules adopted by the Adjutant General. However, the term of service must be completed before the applicant reaches age 64. The Adjutant General may extend the service age upon request by an active member of the Guard if the Adjutant General determines the member's extension would be in the best interest of the Guard. Extensions are for a one-year duration and may be renewed until the member attains age 68.

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Summary of Bill:

The age limit on enlistment to the Guard is eliminated. The Adjutant General has full discretion to decide the period of enlistment for Guard members. The Adjutant General may extend a Guard member's service age beyond age 64 for a one-year duration upon request of an active member of the Guard if:

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Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) This bill passed out of committee and the House of Representatives unanimously last year. The Washington State Guard helped to secure elections this year. Guard members also assisted with fires and floods. These members should be able to continue to serve as long as they are physically and mentally able to serve the community.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Representative Klippert, prime sponsor.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.