HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 99-4699, by Representatives Conway, Clements, Cooper, Reardon, Edmonds, Wood, DeBolt, Radcliff, Cody and Miloscia

     WHEREAS, Wednesday, April 28th, is the annual Workers' Memorial Day to honor injured workers and families of those workers who have died; and

     WHEREAS, There are ninety million people in seven million workplaces in the United States and more than three million workers in Washington who work hard to support themselves and their families; and

     WHEREAS, The nation's workers represent the backbone of the economy and have made the United States the most prosperous country in the world; and

     WHEREAS, On an average day, one hundred fifty-four workers lose their lives in our country as a result of workplace injuries and illnesses and another seventeen thousand are injured; and

     WHEREAS, In 1998, Washington had one hundred four work-related fatalities and one hundred eighty-nine thousand work-related illnesses and injuries; and

     WHEREAS, Government action can make a difference as evidenced by the Occupational Safety and Health Act passed in 1970, and the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act passed in 1973, which led to a drastic reduction in workplace deaths and injuries;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the many millions of workers who have contributed to our country and our state, and honor those who have suffered injuries or who have died on the job; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Co-Chief Clerks of the House of Representatives to Rick Bender of the Washington State Labor Council for distribution to affiliated and independent members, to Don Brunell of the Association of Washington Business, and Gary Moore of the Department of Labor and Industries.

                           --- END ---