Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HJM 4020


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: Requesting the Washington Air and Army National Guard not be federalized.

Sponsors: Representatives Seaquist, Morrell, Bailey, Ericks, Kelley, Roach, Kessler, Green, Campbell, Williams, McDonald, VanDeWege, Hudgins, Chase, Hunt, Dunn, McCune, Buri, Haler, Priest, Kretz, Goodman, Cody, P. Sullivan, Sommers, Hasegawa, Rolfes, Pedersen and Miloscia.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requests Congress to pass pending legislation related to presidential control of the National Guard.

Hearing Date: 2/27/07

Staff: Alison Hellberg (786-7152).

Background:

Federal legislation was enacted last year that gives the President of the United States power to federalize the National Guard (Guard) without consent of the governors. Previously, governors had control of the Guard in domestic emergencies and the President had control for overseas demands.

The President may employ the Guard in federal service to:

There are currently two companion bills pending before Congress that revive previous authority on the use of armed forces and the Guard.

Summary of Bill:

Legislative findings are made that:

The United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate are requested to enact H.R. 869 and S. 513, which relate to presidential control of the National Guard.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.