SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   SHB 2307

             AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS,

                               FEBRUARY 24, 1992

Brief Description:  Altering the Washington state board on geographic names.

SPONSORS: House Committee on Natural Resources & Parks (originally sponsored by Representatives Fraser and Brumsickle)

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

      Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chairman; Madsen, and Sutherland.

Staff:  Barbara Howard (786‑7410)

Hearing Dates: February 24, 1992

BACKGROUND:

The Washington State Board on Geographic Names is responsible for establishing the official names for lakes, mountains, streams, places, towns, and other geographic features in the state.  The board does not have specific authority to name man-made features or administrative areas.

The board consists of the state librarian and the Commissioner of Public Lands, or their representatives; the chairperson of the Washington State Heritage Council; and four members of the general public appointed by the Commissioner of Public Lands.

SUMMARY:

The authority of the Washington State Board on Geographic Names is extended to name human-constructed geographic features such as canals and islands, in addition to lakes.  When determining the name of a human-constructed geographic feature, the board is required to consult with the person who constructed the feature whenever possible.

The chairperson of the Washington State Heritage Council is authorized to name a representative to the board.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:  None

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  No one