FINAL BILL REPORT

2EHB 1876

C 90 L 10

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Providing funds for disabled veterans through voluntary donations.

Sponsors: Representatives McCune, Miloscia, Haler, Klippert, Campbell, Rodne, Schmick, O'Brien, Roach, Warnick, Short, Conway, Cox and Orcutt.

House Committee on Transportation

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections

Background:

The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) is a Governor cabinet-level agency that provides assistance and services to veterans and dependents of veterans. The agency accepts grants, donations, and gifts from any person, corporation, government, or governmental agency, made in behalf of a former member of the armed forces.

Summary:

Any retailer in the state may provide an opportunity for patrons to make voluntary donations to the newly-created Disabled Veterans Assistance Account on Veterans' Day and any additional days the retailer decides would be appropriate.

The DVA may also request and accept non-dedicated contributions, grants, or gifts in cash or otherwise. All moneys deposited into the Account must be used by the DVA for activities that benefit veterans including, but not limited to, providing programs and services that assist veterans with the procurement of durable medical equipment, mobility enhancing equipment, emergency home or vehicle repair, service animals, or emergency food or emergency shelter. The first priority for assistance provided through the Account must be given to veterans who are experiencing a financial hardship and do not qualify for other federal or state veterans programs and services. Funds from the Account may not be used to supplant existing funds received by the DVA.

Votes on Final Passage: