SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5116
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 19, 2009
Title: An act relating to designating a state nickname.
Brief Description: Designating "The Evergreen State" as the official nickname of the state of Washington.
Sponsors: Senator Honeyford.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 1/19/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Edward Redmond (786-7471)
Background: On November 11, 1889, Washington became the 42nd state to enter the Union. It is the only state named for a president. In the late 1800s, Charles Tallmadge (C.T.) Conover, a pioneer Seattle realtor, newspaper columnist, and historian, nicknamed Washington "The Evergreen State." Conover, who was also instrumental in retaining the name of Mount Rainer, gave Washington this nickname for its abundant evergreen forests.
Today "The Evergreen State" is generally accepted as a reference to the state of Washington state. The nickname can be seen engraved on Washington State license plates, on memorabilia sold at souvenir shops across the state, and inscribed on the April 2007 United States memorial quarter honoring Washington State.
Summary of Bill: "The Evergreen State" is designated as the official nickname of the state of Washington.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: None.
Persons Testifying: No one.