SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5061
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. |
As of January 25, 2013
Title: An act relating to a veteran's preference for the purpose of public employment.
Brief Description: Addressing a veteran's preference for the purpose of public employment.
Sponsors: Senators Carrell, Roach, Becker, Bailey, Conway, Rolfes and Shin.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Governmental Operations: 1/24/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS |
Staff: Samuel Brown (786-7470)
Background: State law provides that honorably discharged veterans receive preference in public employment. In all competitive examinations for state and local public employment, veterans are given a scoring criteria percentage to be added to a passing score. The added percentage varies based on the veteran's status. A veteran who served during a period of war or armed conflict and does not receive military retirement is eligible for a 10 percent preference. A veteran who did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict is eligible for a 5 percent preference. A veteran who served during a period of war or armed conflict, but is receiving military retirement, is eligible for a 5 percent preference. A veteran who is called to active military service from employment with the state is eligible for a 5 percent preference until the first promotion.
Summary of Bill: A veteran who served during a period of war or armed conflict and receives military retirement is eligible for a 10 percent preference on competitive examinations for state public employment. A veteran who did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict continues to be eligible for a 5 percent preference on competitive examinations for state public employment, regardless of whether that veteran receives military retirement.
Veteran scoring criteria status can be claimed upon receipt of separation orders if the orders indicate an honorable discharge. Veteran scoring criteria status becomes permanent upon actual separation from the military.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Someone who has served more than 19 years does not get a preference. This would treat all veterans who qualify the same way. This is a matter of fairness. As we have an aging population, we have a need to keep people employed. This bill would encourage veterans' employment.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Carrell, prime sponsor; Dick Marcelynas, Veterans Legislative Coalition.