Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 2004

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.

Brief Summary of Bill

Eliminates the age restriction for enlistment with the Washington State Guard.
Expands the Adjutant General's ability to extend the service age of an active member of the Washington State Guard beyond existing limits under certain conditions.

Background:

The Washington State Guard (Guard) is a military unit organized by the Washington State Military Department. Members of the Guard are volunteers and serve under the direction of the state's Adjutant General. Guard members are available to serve the Governor in place of the National Guard in the event that the National Guard in the State of Washington is called into federal service. The Governor may also call the Guard into state service in other instances, including natural disasters and search, rescue, or recovery operations.

The period of enlistment in the Guard is set by rules adopted by the Adjutant General. However, the term of service must be completed before the applicant reaches age 64.

The Adjutant General may extend the service age upon request by an active member of the Guard if the Adjutant General determines the member's extension would be in the best

interest of the Guard. Extensions are for a one-year duration and may be renewed until the member attains age 68.

Summary of Bill:

The age limit on enlistment to the Washington State Guard (Guard) is eliminated. The Adjutant General has full discretion to decide the period of enlistment for Guard members.

The Adjutant General may extend a Guard member's service age beyond age 64 for one-year at time upon request of an active member of the Guard if:

the member is physically and mentally capable to complete all assigned mission tasks;
the Washington State Guard Officer Review Board recommends the extension; and
the member is willing to sign a statement releasing the Guard and the Military Department of liability for physical or mental injuries resulting from or related to the member's age.