SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8051

As of February 2, 2004

Brief Description: Asking Congress to give first priority to supporting and passing the defense appropriations bill first.

Sponsors: Senators Benton, Roach, Swecker, Hale and T. Sheldon.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/4/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Diane Smith (786-7410)

Background: In the Spring of 2002, Congress passed the defense appropriations bill first before all other spending bills, thereby protecting the men and women in the armed forces from becoming hostage pawns in pork barrel spending maneuvers.

Summary of Bill: The Senate and House of Representatives of the state of Washington request that President Bush, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House and each member of Congress from the state of Washington continue this important tradition and pass and enact the defense appropriations legislation before all other spending bills in 2004 and in future years.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.