FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 5150

                              C 128 L 89

BYSenators Bender, Thorsness, Kreidler, Conner and Talmadge

Declaring prisoner of war recognition day.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

House Committe on State Government

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

April 9, 1988 was proclaimed "National Former Prisoner of War Day" by President Reagan; Governor Gardner made a similar proclamation to honor Washington's former POWs.  April 9 was the date of the largest mass surrender of American troops in United States history, which occurred in the Philippines in 1942.  The date also marks the surrender of Confederate forces at Appomattox in 1865, liberating thousands of Union and Confederate POWs.

Washington has 10 legal holidays that are paid holidays for most public employees.  Columbus Day is recognized, but is not a legal holiday.

SUMMARY:

April 9 is declared to be "Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day" but is not to be considered a legal holiday.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

     Senate   47    0

     House 97  0

EFFECTIVE:July 23, 1989