SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5970

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 Reported by Senate Committee On:

Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections, January 26, 2012

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, Conway, Becker, Swecker, Morton, Shin, Kilmer, Hobbs and Chase.

Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 1/12/12, 1/26/12 [DPS].

Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5970 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

Signed by Senators Pridemore, Chair; Prentice, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Benton, Chase, Nelson and Roach.

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 (a 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 10 percent preference. A veteran who did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict, or is receiving military retirement, is eligible for a 5 percent preference.

Summary of Bill (Recommended Substitute): A veteran who receives military retirement pay must receive the same veterans' preference in relation to hiring as received by other veterans.

Veteran scoring criteria status may be claimed upon receipt of separation orders issued by the military if the orders indicate an honorable discharge. The status becomes permanent upon actual separation.

EFFECT OF CHANGES MADE BY GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS COMMITTEE (Recommended Substitute): Removes section of the bill that extended the veteran preference for lay off and reemployment purposes.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony on Original Bill: PRO: This is a good bill. All veterans who honorably served their country should be treated the same. This bill removes any distinction between veterans preference based on whether or not a veteran receives a pension.