SENATE RESOLUTION

                         1999-8642

By Senators Kohl‑Welles, Fairley, Thibaudeau, McDonald, Roach, Wojahn, Horn, Loveland, Haugen, Sellar, Snyder, Stevens, Eide, Fraser, Franklin, Spanel, Rasmussen and McAuliffe

     WHEREAS, Washington citizens with developmental disabilities are able to live independent, self-determined lives supported by dedicated direct support staff; and

     WHEREAS, The lives of families who have children with developmental disabilities are enriched by direct support staff who provide respite care; and

     WHEREAS, When individuals with disabilities are supported as fully participating members of society, our communities are strengthened; and

     WHEREAS, In order to fully support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, direct support staff must themselves be recognized as valued members of our society; and

     WHEREAS, Civic pride and understanding in our neighborhoods is nurtured when we broaden public awareness of disability issues, and the essential role that direct support staff play to support citizens with developmental disabilities in living lives of freedom with dignity and respect; and

     WHEREAS, The vitality of our state's economy and culture is fostered by individuals with disabilities who make unique contributions to living and working in Washington;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor and celebrate the direct support staff that care for individuals with developmental disabilities in our state, country, and the world.

I, Tony M. Cook, Secretary of the Senate,

do hereby certify that this is a true and

correct copy of Senate Resolution 1999-8642,

adopted by the Senate March 24, 1999.

TONY M. COOK

Secretary of the Senate