FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 2744

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 182 L 14

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Modifying certain provisions governing veteran-owned businesses.

Sponsors: Representatives G. Hunt, Appleton, Tarleton and Freeman.

House Committee on Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs

Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor

Background:

Veteran-Owned Businesses.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) certifies certain businesses as veteran-owned businesses. The DVA collects and maintains a list of certified veteran-owned businesses on its website and issues decals for businesses to identify themselves as veteran-owned businesses.

Businesses may submit an application to the DVA for certification. To qualify as a veteran-owned business, a business must be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by a veteran or an active or reserve member of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard, Coast Guard, or reserves.

The Legislature encourages state agencies to award 3 percent of all procurement contracts that are exempt from competitive bidding to veteran-owned businesses, including contracts by higher education institutions and contracts for public works and personal service. The Department of Enterprise Services (DES) keeps records of all veteran-owned businesses certified by the DVA.

Veteran Definition.

Veteran is defined generally as any person who has received an honorable discharge or a discharge for medical reasons with an honorable record and has served as:

Summary:

A qualifying veteran-owned business must be an enterprise incorporated in Washington as a domestic corporation or an enterprise with its principal place of business located in the state.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

97

0

Senate

48

0

Effective:

June 12, 2014