McCabe’s ‘One Business, One Vet’ bill headed to governor’s desk

 A bill to increase veteran employment in Washington state passed the Senate unanimously, 47-0, and is headed to the governor for his consideration.

House Bill 2040, which passed the House unanimously on March 5, is part of an ongoing effort by 14th District State Rep. Gina McCabe to pay it forward to the 600,000 veterans in Washington state and increase their employment numbers.

“When I met with veterans early in the session they shared with me that many of them, after serving their country, just want to find a job and work to support their families. We have a high unemployment rate among our veterans, especially our younger military heroes,” said McCabe, R-Goldendale. “We know those serving in our military have a strong work ethic and a diverse set of skills, and once this bill is signed into law it should help provide them more employment opportunities.”

The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), Employment Security Department, and the Department of Commerce must consult local chambers of commerce, associate development organizations and businesses to initiate a demonstration campaign to increase veteran employment.

The campaign may include partnerships with chambers of commerce that result in business owners sharing information on the number of veterans employed with the chambers who then provide this information to DVA.

Participants in the campaign are encouraged to work with the Washington State Military Transition Council and with county veterans' advisory boards.

Existing resources are used to fund the campaign.

Once the governor signs the bill, it will take effect 90 days after the regular session adjourns. The legislative session is scheduled to adjourn on April 26.

PHOTO CAPTION: Rep. Terry Nealey congratulates Rep. Gina McCabe on the House floor after her 'One Business, One Vet' bill passed the House on March 5.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov