Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

SJM 8001

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.

Sponsors: Senators Sheldon, Bailey, Holmquist Newbry, Becker, Cleveland, Carrell, Frockt, Delvin, Padden, Ericksen, Dammeier, Rivers, Benton, Honeyford, Braun, Hill, Parlette, Roach, Tom, Schoesler, King, Hewitt and Conway.

Brief Summary of Bill

Requests that the Washington State Transportation Commission name Interstate 5 from the Canadian border to the Oregon state line the “Purple Heart Trail."

Background:

The Washington State Transportation Commission (Commission) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities, including highways and bridges. The Commission’s policy states: “a naming is done in a thorough and deliberative manner to honor and institute an enduring memory of a person or group of people who have contributed significantly to the well-being of the state or nation and with the widespread support of the people from the area in which the facility is located.”

Upon passage of a Joint Memorial requesting the naming of a facility, the Commission holds a public hearing prior to taking action. After the Commission takes final action, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) designs and installs the appropriate signs.

Summary of Bill:

The memorial asks that Interstate 5 from the Canadian border to the Oregon state line be named the “Purple Heart Trail” to honor the service and sacrifice of all who have been killed in action or wounded in combat. Copies of the memorial are to be forwarded to the Secretary of Transportation, the Commission, and the WSDOT.