OLYMPIA— In a significant move to bolster support for Washington’s veterans, the state House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved House Bill 1102, sponsored by Rep. Clyde Shavers (D-Clinton). This groundbreaking legislation represents the largest expansion of the state’s Veterans Service Officer (VSO) Program, aiming to ensure every veteran has access to the benefits and services they’ve earned.
Washington currently faces significant gaps in veteran services, especially in rural and underserved areas. Today, only eight of the state’s 39 counties meet or exceed the national average for veterans receiving VA disability or pension benefits. HB 1102 directly tackles this disparity by prioritizing areas with the greatest need.
“This is the largest and most impactful investment in veteran support our state can ever make,” said Shavers. “We are fighting to ensure that every veteran in our state – no matter where they live – will have access to a Veterans Service Officer who can help them claim the benefits they’ve earned.”
This initiative will not only transform Washington but could serve as a model for other states looking to better their veterans. The bill would also require the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs to contact newly discharged veterans – within 90 days of leaving service – to inform them about available benefits and resources.
“No veteran or family member should be left behind in any corner of our state, and we should make Washington a leader in how we care for those who served us,” said Shavers. “The impact has already been transformative in Island County where we funded a VSO last year, and I’m committed to delivering for every veteran in Washington.”
House Bill 1102 passed out of the House of Representatives 96-1 and now heads to the Senate for further consideration.