SENATE BILL REPORT

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.

As Reported by Senate Committee On:

Transportation, January 30, 2013

Brief Description: Requesting that Interstate 5 be named the "Purple Heart Trail."

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.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/29/13, 1/30/13 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Benton, Vice Co-Chair; Eide, Co-Chair; King, Co-Chair; Billig, Fain, Budget Leadership Cabinet; Harper, Hobbs, Mullet, Schlicher, Sheldon and Smith.

Staff: Clint McCarthy (786-7319)

Background: The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to members of the armed forces of the United States who are wounded or killed in military action. The Purple Heart Trail was established in 1992 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart and is intended to create a symbolic and honorary system of roads, highways, bridges, and other monuments that give tribute to those who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal. The Purple Heart Trail originates at a monument in Mt. Vernon, Virginia, and various roads, bridges, and monuments are designated as part of the Purple Heart Trail in 45 states and Guam, including Interstate 5 in California.

Current law authorizes the Washington Transportation Commission (Commission) to name or rename state transportation facilities, such as state highways, bridges, and ferry terminals. The entity or person requesting the naming must provide evidence, as determined by the Commission, indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal. Historically, the Legislature passing a memorial in support of a naming proposal has been considered by the Commission as a measure of community support.

The Commission typically holds public hearings on naming proposals to collect additional input from residents, elected officials, and other groups who represent the area encompassing the transportation facility to be named.

Summary of Bill: The Legislature requests that the Commission rename Interstate 5 from the Canadian border to the Oregon State line the Purple Heart Trail.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: There are 60,000 recipients of Purple Heart Awards in Washington State. To date, 4000 Purple Heart license plates have been issued statewide. It would be a great way to honor those who were injured in service to the country.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Jim Sims, Military Order of the Purple Heart.