This bill seeks to improve access to state benefits and employment opportunities for veterans, uniformed service members, and military spouses in Washington State. It introduces a new section that highlights the sacrifices of these individuals and ensures they receive equitable benefits when pursuing public service employment. Key amendments include the addition of hiring preferences for veterans and military spouses, the extension of service credit for military service in retirement contexts, and the continuation of professional licenses for service members and their spouses during active duty. The bill also clarifies definitions related to "military service" and "uniformed services," which now includes the United States public health service commissioned corps and the national oceanic and atmospheric administration commissioned officer corps.

Additionally, the bill enhances employment preferences for veterans and military spouses in both public and private sectors by introducing new definitions, such as "qualifying discharge," which encompasses honorable discharges and those related to sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It ensures that individuals returning from active military duty are treated as being on furlough, preserving their seniority and benefits. The legislation emphasizes that these employment preferences comply with state and local equal employment opportunity laws, ultimately aiming to create a more inclusive workforce for those who have served in the military and their families.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 38.04.010, 38.42.010, 41.18.150, 41.20.050, 41.40.170, 43.24.130, 41.04.010, 41.44.120, 73.16.031, 73.16.010, 73.16.051, 73.16.110
Substitute Bill: 38.04.010, 38.42.010, 41.18.150, 41.20.050, 41.40.170, 43.24.130, 41.04.010, 41.44.120, 73.16.031, 73.16.010, 73.16.051, 73.16.110