HOUSE BILL REPORT
SJM 8024


This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Passed House:
March 5, 2008

Brief Description: Requesting that Highway 112 be named the "Vietnam War Veterans' Memorial Highway."

Sponsors: By Senators Hargrove, Haugen, Benton, Franklin, Spanel, Marr, Sheldon, Roach, Hobbs, Kilmer, Shin, McAuliffe, Rasmussen and Carrell.

Brief History:

Transportation: 2/26/08 [DP].

Floor Activity:

Passed House: 3/5/08, 96-0.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requests that the Washington State Transportation Commission name the section of Highway 112 between the junction of Highway 101 and the junction of Highway 113 the "Vietnam War Veterans' Memorial Highway."


HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 23 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Flannigan, Vice Chair; Ericksen, Ranking Minority Member; Schindler, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Appleton, Dickerson, Eddy, Herrera, Hudgins, Jarrett, Kristiansen, Loomis, Rodne, Rolfes, Sells, Smith, Springer, Takko, Upthegrove, Wallace, Warnick, Williams and Wood.

Staff: Christie Parker (786-7322).

Background:

Under current law, the Washington State Transportation Commission (Commission) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities such as highways and bridges. An entity or person requesting the naming or renaming must provide sufficient evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal.

The Commission must consult with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) before taking final action to name or rename a state transportation facility. After the Commission takes action to name or rename the facility, the WSDOT designs and installs the appropriate signs.


Summary of Bill:

The memorial asks that the segment of Highway 112 in Clallam County between the junctions of Highways 101 and 113 be named the "Vietnam War Veterans' Memorial Highway." Copies of the memorial are to be forwarded to the Secretary of the WSDOT, the Washington State Transportation Commission, and the WSDOT.


Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) The designation of the Vietnam War Veterans' Memorial Highway is an opportunity to recognize the dedication and commitment of veterans. It is also a reminder of those who did not make it home from Vietnam. The highway designation will encourage travelers to remember history. The highway designation is an opportunity to heal the wounds of war and remember the sacrifices that were made.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Senator Hargrove, prime sponsor; and Skip Dreps, Northwest Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.