HB 1760 - DIGEST

     Declares that eligibility shall be extended exclusively to employees and their dependents, including lawful spouses, who qualify according to the eligibility requirements in effect on May 1, 2000.

     Provides that, for purposes of eligibility, the term "lawful spouse" means a husband or a wife in a marriage recognized as valid in accordance with RCW 26.04.010 as amended by chapter 1, Laws of  1998 (reaffirming and protecting the institution of marriage, known as the Washington state defense of marriage act).

     Directs the secretary of state to submit this act to the people for their adoption and ratification, or rejection, at the next general election to be held in this state, in accordance with Article II, section 1 of the state Constitution and the laws adopted to facilitate its operation.