SENATE BILL REPORT

                           SJR 8213

                    AS OF FEBRUARY 9, 1993

Brief Description:  Amending the Constitution to permit municipalities and state agencies to employ chaplains.

SPONSORS: Senators Franklin, Winsley, Prentice, Hochstatter, McAuliffe, Barr, Erwin, Hargrove and Drew

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Staff:  Martin Lovinger (786‑7443)

Hearing Dates: February 15, 1993

BACKGROUND:

The State Constitution prohibits the use of public money or property to be used for any religious worship, exercise or instruction, or the support of any religious establishment.  However, these prohibitions do not forbid the Legislature from providing for the state to employ a chaplain for state custodial, correctional, and mental institutions.

SUMMARY:

The Legislature is authorized to permit counties and public hospital districts to employ chaplains at their hospitals, health facilities, and hospices.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested February 4, 1993

Effective Date:  The amendment becomes effective immediately upon certification of the election results of the November 1993 general election, if the voters approve the amendment.