FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1537

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.

C 83 L 13

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Addressing a veteran's preference for the purpose of public employment.

Sponsors: House Committee on Government Operations & Elections (originally sponsored by Representatives O'Ban, Angel, Hayes, Green, Zeiger, Bergquist, Johnson, Ryu, Morrell and Shea).

House Committee on Government Operations & Elections

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Background:

Honorably discharged veterans receive a preference in public employment upon separation from the military. In all competitive examinations for state and local public employment other than promotional examinations, veterans with a passing score are given bonus points in the form of an added percentage. The percentage varies based on the veteran's status:

Status

Preference

served during a period of war or armed conflict and has not received military retirement:

10 percent

served during a period of war or armed conflict and is receiving military retirement:

5 percent

did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict:

5 percent

was called to active military service from employment with the state or any of its political subdivisions:

5 percent, and applies to promotional examinations until the first promotion

Summary:

Veterans may claim and receive the preference in public employment before actual separation from the military, upon receipt of separation orders indicating an honorable discharge. The preference status becomes permanent upon actual separation.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

97

0

Senate

48

0

Effective:

July 28, 2013