SENATE BILL REPORT

                   HB 2621

              As Reported By Senate Committee On:

              Ecology & Parks, February 15, 1996

Title:  An act relating to the Lewis and Clark trail bicentennial commemoration.

Brief Description:  Authorizing the Washington state historical society to work with the Lewis and Clark trail committee in developing activities to commemorate the Lewis and Clark trail bicentennial.

Sponsors:  Representatives Honeyford, Ogden, Jacobsen, R. Fisher, Radcliff, Brumsickle, Chopp, Hickel and Conway; by request of Washington State Historical Society.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Ecology & Parks:  2/14/96, 2/15/96 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECOLOGY & PARKS

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Fraser, Chair; Fairley, Vice Chair; Hochstatter, McAuliffe, Spanel and Swecker.

Staff:  Gary Wilburn (786-7453)

Background:  The bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition is approaching.  The importance of the expedition in obtaining information about the lands west of the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean, and its role in the Louisiana Purchase, are well known.  Along the route of this historic expedition there are numerous counties, towns, rivers, colleges, schools and other place names that commemorate the expedition's legacy and its importance in the formation of the nation.  There are numerous regional and national organizations that exist with the purpose of promoting an interest in the contribution of this exploration to the nation's history.  To adequately prepare for the bicentennial commemorative activities, there is a need to coordinate among the various Washington historical organizations.

Summary of Bill:  The Washington State Historical Society is directed to work with and provide leadership to the Lewis and Clark Trail Committee in planning commemorative activities relating to the expedition.  The society is to coordinate its efforts with the State Parks and Recreation Commission, and is to work with other associations and state agencies to disseminate information about planned activities. 

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  It will help to provide leadership and coordination among numerous organizations that are preparing activities and information surrounding the expedition's bicentennial commemoration.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Michael Warner, WSHA (pro).