SENATE BILL REPORT

HJM 4007

As Reported By Senate Committee On:

Natural Resources, Energy & Water, February 18, 2004

Brief Description: Requesting the issuance of an American coalminers stamp.

Sponsors: Representatives Hinkle, Chopp, Haigh, Woods, Dunshee, Kirby, Boldt, O'Brien, Armstrong, DeBolt, Ahern, Newhouse, Simpson, Holmquist, Cairnes, Sump, Pearson, Shabro, Delvin, Hudgins, Linville, Conway, Skinner, Sullivan and Kenney.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Natural Resources, Energy & Water: 3/21/03 [DPA]; 2/18/04 [DPA].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, ENERGY & WATER

Majority Report: Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Morton, Chair; Hewitt, Vice Chair; Doumit, Fraser, Honeyford, Oke and Regala.

Staff: Vic Moon (786-7469)

Background: The United States Postal Service (USPS) issues commemorative stamps to commemorate events, persons, and themes of widespread national appeal and significance. Proposals for commemorative stamps are presented to the USPS's Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee, a 15-member body that select subjects for recommendation to the Postmaster General, who ultimately decides which stamps will be issued.

It has been suggested that the USPS issue a commemorative stamp to honor coal miners.

Summary of Amended Bill: The Legislature requests that the USPS issue a postage stamp commemorating American coal miners as a way to illustrate a colorful and historically rich segment of society for school children, educators, stamp collectors, and the public. The request is addressed to President Bush, the United States Senate and House of Representatives, the United States Postmaster General, and the USPS Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee.

Historic contributions and sacrifices of American coal miners are identified.

Amended Bill Compared to Original Bill: Technical changes are made and references to other state issues are deleted.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Testimony For: Coal miners have done much for our state historically and are still making major contributions for energy production.

Testimony Against: None.

Testified: Representative Hinkel, prime sponsor (pro).