SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6677

BYSenators Patrick, Nelson, Thorsness, Vognild, McCaslin, Conner, Smith, Warnke, Bauer, West and Lee

Honoring law enforcement officers who die in the line of duty.

Senate Committee on Law & Justice

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 30, 1990

Majority Report:     Do pass.

     Signed by Senators Nelson, Chairman; McCaslin, Vice Chairman; Hayner, Madsen, Newhouse, Niemi, Patrick, Rasmussen, Rinehart, Talmadge, Thorsness.

Senate Staff:Ben Barnes (786-7465)

                January 30, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE, JANUARY 30, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Each year there are law enforcement officers who distinguish themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct while in performance of duty.  Several law enforcement agencies recognize meritorious conduct at the agency level.  However, there exists no statewide system of recognition.

Proponents of this legislation are of the opinion that police officers who distinguish themselves in the line of duty are deserving of statewide recognition.

SUMMARY:

A state law enforcement medal of honor is established to be awarded annually by a state nominating committee to law enforcement officers who have been seriously injured while in the performance of duty, or who have been distinguished by exceptionally meritorious conduct.  Any officer who lost his or her life or became totally disabled in the line of duty is automatically nominated for the award.

Children at least 18 years of age and the spouse of any officer killed or totally disabled in the line of duty are exempt from paying tuition and activities fees at state colleges and universities.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    requested January 24, 1990

Effective Date:July 1, 1990

Senate Committee - Testified:   No one