Brief Description: Concerning the definition of veteran.

Sponsors: Representatives Haigh, Nixon, Conway, Morrell, Bailey, Campbell, McCoy, Green, Rodne, Springer, McCune, Kilmer, Moeller and P. Sullivan.

Hearing Date: 1/18/06

Staff: Kasa Tupua (786-7291).

Background:

Washington's statutes define "veteran" in two ways, one of which governs the eligibility for programs such as retirement benefits, tuition exemption, and credit for military services.

The second, broader definition governs eligibility requirements for various benefits for veterans that include the following:

• armed forces license plate collection;
• admission to a state veterans' home;
• veterans' scoring preference on civil service exams;
• free license plates for disabled veterans and prisoners of war;
• county assistance to indigent veterans and families;
• restrictions on sending veterans or their families to almshouses;
• county burial of indigent deceased veterans; or
• a tax levy for the Veteran's Assistance Fund.

Summary of Bill:

The definition of veteran is modified to remove the reference to the provision that restricts sending veterans or their families to almshouses.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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