| VETO MESSAGE ON SSB 5691 |
| May 12, 2011 |
| To the Honorable President and Members, |
| The Senate of the State of Washington |
| Ladies and Gentlemen: |
| I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Sections 402, 503, 804 and 805, Substitute Senate Bill 5691 entitled: |
"AN ACT Relating to crime victims' compensation." |
| With this bill, the Legislature has taken important steps to ensure the sustainability of our Crime Victims' Compensation program. Administrative efficiencies, coupled with painful but necessary benefit reductions, will allow the program to maintain its viability for the foreseeable future. However, only temporarily reducing these benefits will only temporarily strengthen the Crime Victims' Compensation program. An increase in crime victims' benefits is a discussion that should occur if and when state revenues improve, but not before that time. |
| For these reasons, I have vetoed Sections 402, 503, 804 and 805 of Substitute Senate Bill 5691. |
| With the exception of Sections 402, 503, 804 and 805, Substitute Senate Bill 5691 is approved. |
| Respectfully submitted, |
| Christine Gregoire |
| Governor |