HOUSE BILL REPORT
HJM 4002
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:
February 28, 2017
Brief Description: Requesting that state route number 395 be named the Thomas S. "Tom" Foley Memorial Highway.
Sponsors: Representatives Riccelli, Clibborn, Johnson, Ormsby, Jinkins, Fitzgibbon, Haler, Reeves, Kilduff, Manweller, Ortiz-Self, Tarleton, Hudgins, Stanford, Chapman, Dolan, Jenkin, Fey and Farrell.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
Transportation: 2/1/17, 2/8/17 [DP].
Floor Activity:
Passed House: 2/28/17, 69-29.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 19 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Farrell, Vice Chair; Fey, Vice Chair; Wylie, Vice Chair; Chapman, Gregerson, Hayes, Irwin, Lovick, McBride, Morris, Ortiz-Self, Pellicciotti, Pike, Riccelli, Rodne, Stambaugh, Tarleton and Young.
Minority Report: Do not pass. Signed by 4 members: Representatives Orcutt, Ranking Minority Member; Hargrove, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Shea and Van Werven.
Minority Report: Without recommendation. Signed by 1 member: Representative Harmsworth, Assistant Ranking Minority Member.
Staff: Alyssa Ball (786-7140).
Background:
The Washington State Transportation Commission (WSTC) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities, including highways and bridges. The WSTC'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." In order for the WSTC to consider a proposal, the requesting entity must provide sufficient evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal. This evidence can include a letter or support from the state or federal legislator representing the area encompassing the facility to be renamed. Other evidence that can provide proof of community support includes a resolution passed by other elected bodies in the impacted area, Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) support, and supportive action from a local organization such as a chamber of commerce.
Upon passage of a joint memorial requesting the naming of a facility, the WSTC holds a public hearing prior to taking action. After the WSTC takes final action, the WSDOT designs and installs the appropriate signs.
Summary of Bill:
The WSTC is requested to commence proceedings to name State Route 395 the "Thomas S. 'Tom' Foley Memorial Highway."
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) Speaker Foley believed strongly in the maintenance and preservation of state infrastructure and, to that end, he was successful in securing over $289 million in funding for the State Route 395 corridor in Eastern Washington. His decency and integrity earned him the respect of his colleagues and he was the first United States Speaker of the House from east of the Rocky Mountains. His legacy is one of setting partisan policy aside for advancing causes for the greater good. There is overwhelming support from communities along the State Route 395 corridor to name the corridor after Speaker Foley. This is a small act to recognize Speaker Foley's lifetime of public service.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: Representative Riccelli, prime sponsor; Chris Marr; Todd Woodard; and Michael Moran.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.