| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee | |
HB 1475
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.
Brief Description: Adding members to the state board for volunteer firefighters and reserve officers.
Sponsors: Representatives Hurst, Haigh, Eickmeyer, Curtis, Alexander, Morrell, Crouse, Simpson, Roach and VanDeWege.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/30/07
Staff: Alison Hellberg (786-7152).
Background:
The Volunteer Fire Fighters' and Reserve Officers' Relief and Pension System (System) provides
death, disability, medical, and retirement benefits to volunteer fire fighters and reserve officers in
cities, towns, and fire protection districts. The System is funded by member and employer
contributions and a portion of the fire insurance premium tax.
Employers are required to participate in the death, disability, and medical benefit plans offered
by the System, but participation in the pension component is optional. Around 18,000 members
are covered by the death, disability, and medical benefits, and 12,000 members are covered by
the pension benefits.
The State Board for Volunteer Fire Fighters and Reserve Officers (Board) administers the
System. The Board consists of three members of fire departments covered by the System and are
appointed by the Governor to serve overlapping six-year terms. The members must be from
different congressional districts.
Summary of Bill:
Two members are added to the Board for a total of five board members. No more than three of
the members of the Board may be receiving relief or retirement pension payments under the
system. The Governor may consider recommendations from appropriate state associations when
making appointments to the Board.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.