SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5289

BYSenators Conner and Bauer

Revising the definition of "veteran."

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 25, 1987; March 4, 1987

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5289 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass and be referred to Committee on Ways & Means.

      Signed by Senators Halsan, Chairman; Garrett, Vice Chairman; McCaslin, Talmadge.

Senate Staff:Barbara Howard (786-7410); Walt Corneille (786-7452) March 9, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS, MARCH 4, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The definition of "veteran" for a variety of educational, employment and retirement benefits has been tied to (1) receipt of an honorable discharge or a discharge for physical reasons with an honorable record, and (2) a specified period of war or to the receipt of a medal awarded for overseas duty.  It has been suggested that the latter restrictions be eliminated.

SUMMARY:

A "veteran" is redefined as a person who has served for a period of 180 days or longer.  The requirement of an honorable discharge or discharge for physical reasons with an honorable record is retained, but the requirements of serving during specified periods of war or receiving a specific medal are deleted.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The definition of "veteran" is redefined as a person who served a period of at least 181 days' continuous service unless discharged earlier for a service-connected disability.

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS: Mark Brown, WFSE; John M. Libby, Sr., VFW, Lew Brewer, American Legion; Eugene St. John, WPES; R. L. Hollister, DORS