The Washington State Legislature unanimously passed a groundbreaking bill on Friday, aimed at providing access to state benefits for over 35,000 veterans. The legislation addresses a critical issue by extending benefits to service members who were previously ineligible due to less than honorable discharges. This exclusion often affected individuals who were let go after reporting sexual assault or experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Currently, Washington state offers benefits to veterans under a “very narrow set of conditions,” as stated in a news release from the Washington State Attorney General’s Office. House Bill (HB) 2014, however, seeks to rectify this situation by ensuring that veterans who qualify for federal benefits will also qualify for state benefits. Under the new legislation, any veteran who was discharged solely based on their sexual orientation or gender identity will be eligible for state benefits, even if they do not meet the criteria for federal benefits. This is a significant step towards inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ veterans.
The passage of HB 2014 will grant these veterans access to housing assistance, Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes, hiring preferences, and other state benefits. This comprehensive approach aims to provide the necessary support and resources to veterans who have faced discrimination or hardship due to their service and identity.
The bill, sponsored by Representative Mike Volz (R-Spokane) and requested by Attorney General Bob Ferguson, received bipartisan support, highlighting its importance and broad appeal. Senator John Lovick (D-Mill Creek) also sponsored a Senate version of the bill, further emphasizing the collaborative effort to address this critical issue.
The unanimous passage of this legislation reflects the commitment of the Washington State Legislature to support and honor the service of all veterans, regardless of their discharge status or personal circumstances. By expanding access to benefits, the state is taking a significant step towards ensuring that veterans receive the assistance they need and deserve.
The impact of this bill will be far-reaching, positively affecting the lives of thousands of veterans and their families throughout the state. It demonstrates Washington’s dedication to promoting equity, inclusivity, and justice for all those who have served the nation. With the unanimous passage of HB 2014, Washington State has emerged as a leader in recognizing and addressing the unique needs of veterans, and is setting an example for the rest of the country to follow.
Moving forward, the implementation of HB 2014 will require coordination between relevant state agencies to ensure a smooth and efficient process for veterans to access their rightful benefits. This landmark legislation sets an important precedent, encouraging other states to consider similar measures to support and uplift their veteran communities.