Radio Report: House approves Abell bill updating Veterans Advisory Committee

January 23, 2026

The House has voted overwhelmingly to update the structure of Washington’s Veterans Advisory Committee, which advises the governor and the Department of Veterans Affairs on issues affecting veterans. John Sattgast reports from Olympia.

SATTGAST: House Bill 1541 would allow the governor to appoint members representing state veterans’ homes, members of the Veterans Service Organizations, and members based upon military experience and personal attributes.

Representative Hunter Abell, a Republican from Inchelium, is the sponsor.

ABELL: “I believe this bill will improve the quality of advice that the governor receives on these important issues.”

SATTGAST: The measure passed the House 91 to 0. It now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

John Sattgast, the state Capitol.