Title: An act relating to designating the Pacific chorus frog as the state amphibian.

Brief Description: Designating the Pacific chorus frog as the state amphibian.

Sponsors: Representatives Williams, Hunt and B. Sullivan.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/21/07, 90-3.

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 3/29/07 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Fairley, Chair; Roach, Ranking Minority Member; Benton, Kline, Pridemore and Swecker.

Staff: Amy Van Horn (786-7784)

Background: The Legislature has designated various plants and animals to represent and celebrate the spirit and diverse qualities of Washington. Familiar designations include the willow goldfinch as the state bird and the orca as the state marine mammal. The Legislature has also designated a state grass, fruit, tree, fossil, fish, insect, song, folk song, flower, gem, tartan, and arboretum.

Summary of Bill: The Pacific chorus frog, Pseudacris regilla, is designated as the official amphibian of the state of Washington.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Pacific chorus frogs live in every county in the state and on both sides of the Cascades, so as an emblem of the whole state they are an excellent choice. Sixteen other states have already designated a state amphibian. This bill has gotten an entire third grade class excited about the political process, and their project has involved science, research, art, and persuasive writing. This bill is also important because it will make Washington's citizens more aware of wildlife and fragile wetland habitat where they live.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Williams, prime sponsor; Senator Fraser; Keitlyn Watson, Colton Haisch, Boston Harbor Elementary School.