HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2001-4676, by Representatives Kessler and Mastin

     WHEREAS, The tragic events of September 11, 2001, and reports of terrorist activities in the United States and abroad have raised the consciousness of the state of Washington and the nation to the threats to life, liberty, and property associated with terrorist attacks and attempts; and

     WHEREAS, Since the September 11, 2001, tragedy, various federal, state, and local government officials have been reviewing current laws and regulations to consider their effectiveness in preventing and responding to terrorist acts and amending laws to address the threat of terrorism; and

     WHEREAS, The House of Representatives recognizes the need to review current state law to determine if changes should be made to address and respond to potential terrorist activities within this state in order to protect the citizens of Washington, punish those responsible for terrorist acts, and ensure the efficient and effective delivery of government services in the event of an act of terrorism;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives establish a select committee on community security to consider and develop legislation on preventing and responding to terrorist acts and attempts and on punishing those responsible for terrorist acts, and report legislation on these subjects out of committee with all the powers and duties of a standing committee of the house; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the committee will consist of fifteen members, eight Democrat and seven Republican; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the committee will cease to exist on December 31, 2002.

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