SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6153

                    As of January 24, 1996

Title:  An act relating to veterans.

Brief Description:  Revising the awarding of preferences for veterans in regard to public employment.

Sponsors:  Senator Smith.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Labor, Commerce & Trade:  1/25/96.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & TRADE

Staff:  Katie Healy (786-7403)

Background:  Veterans receive specific preferences on competitive examinations for public employment.  Credit for military service is also given when calculating firefighter or police officer pensions.  The definition of veteran includes an individual who has received an honorable discharge or a discharge for physical reasons with an honorable record, and who meets the criteria with regard to the type of military service.

Summary of Bill:  The definition of veteran is simplified to include an individual who has received an honorable discharge or a discharge for physical reasons with an honorable record from any branch of the armed forces of the United States.  References to identified periods of war are deleted.

The required veteran's preference is factored in at the time the veteran takes the written examination for public employment.

Technical changes are made.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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