SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8032

As Reported By Senate Committee On:

State & Local Government, January 23, 2002

Brief Description:  Requesting Patriot's Day to be moved and celebrated on September 11th.

Sponsors:  Senators Benton, Rasmussen, Roach, Oke, Fairley, Swecker, Gardner, Winsley, Prentice, Keiser, Franklin, Stevens, Hochstatter, Parlette, Long, Carlson, West, Deccio, Johnson and Snyder.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  State & Local Government:   1/23/02 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Majority Report:  Do pass.

Signed by Senators Gardner, Chair; Fairley, Vice Chair; Hale, Haugen, Keiser, Kline, McCaslin, T. Sheldon and Swecker.

Staff:  Mac Nicholson (786‑7445)

Background:  Patriot's Day, celebrated on April 19, commemorates Paul Revere's ride through the night of April 18, 1775, to notify his township that the Red Coats were coming, thereby preparing the town for success against Great Britain and giving our new nation a chance for freedom and liberty. 

Some believe the tragic events of September 11 were the most significant challenge of all to America's freedom and liberty.  The actions of rescue workers saved many lives and the actions of recovery workers, blood donors, and financial contributors in response to the tragedy exemplify our nation's solidarity and unity.  The frequent and proud display of the American flag demonstrates the overwhelming strength our citizens have shown in response to the most recent challenge to American freedom and liberty, resulting in the emergence of a nation ripe with modern day heroes and patriots.

Summary of Bill:  The memorialists respectfully pray that Congress and the President approve the resurrection of Patriot's Day to now be observed annually on September 11.  Patriot's Day must never again be treated as a normal day, but as a day to reflect with family and coworkers on the challenges to our nation's freedom and liberty, and an opportunity to pay tribute to our nation's heroes and patriots, both past and present.  Copies of this memorial must be immediately transmitted to the Honorable George W. Bush, President of the United States; the President of the United States Senate; the Speaker of the House of Representatives; and each member of Congress from the State of Washington.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Testimony For:  None.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  No one.