SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 2119
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 of February 25, 2014
Title: An act relating to designating Palouse falls as the state waterfall.
Brief Description: Designating Palouse falls as the state waterfall.
Sponsors: Representatives Schmick, Fagan, Haler and Moscoso.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/12/14, 98-0.
Committee Activity: Governmental Operations: 2/25/14.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS |
Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)
Background: Palouse Falls, on the Palouse River bordering Franklin and Whitman counties, are a series of waterfalls plunging approximately 200 feet into a deep canyon created during the Pleistocene epoch. The falls are within Palouse Falls State Park.
Summary of Bill: Palouse Falls are designated as the official waterfall 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: This bill was suggested by students in the third, fourth, and fifth grades in the Washtucna School District. The canyon into which the falls plunge is 377 feet deep. The falls have been popularly rated sixth among waterfalls in the United States and tenth among waterfalls worldwide. Palouse Falls State Park is one of the few state parks to operate in the black.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Schmick, prime sponsor.