HOUSE BILL REPORT
HJM 4006
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 House Committee On:
Transportation
Brief Description: Requesting that Interstate 5 be named the "Purple Heart Trail."
Sponsors: Representatives Seaquist, Finn, McCoy, McCune, Armstrong, Kelley and Alexander.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
Transportation: 2/22/11, 2/24/11 [DP].
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 27 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Billig, Vice Chair; Liias, Vice Chair; Armstrong, Ranking Minority Member; Hargrove, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Angel, Asay, Eddy, Finn, Fitzgibbon, Jinkins, Johnson, Klippert, Kristiansen, Ladenburg, McCune, Moeller, Moscoso, Overstreet, Reykdal, Rivers, Rolfes, Ryu, Shea, Takko, Upthegrove and Zeiger.
Staff: Christie Parker (786-7322).
Background:
Under current law, the Washington State Transportation Commission (Transportation Commission) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities. An entity or person requesting that a facility be named or renamed must provide sufficient evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal. The Transportation Commission must consult with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) before taking final action to name or rename a state transportation facility.
The "Purple Heart Trail" was established in 1992 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart to commemorate and honor all men and women who have been wounded or killed in combat while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Summary of Bill:
The bill asks the Transportation Commission to name Interstate 5 from the Canadian border to the Oregon state line the "Purple Heart Trail." Copies of the memorial are to be sent to the Secretary of Transportation, the Transportation Commission, and the WSDOT.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) The Purple Heart is the oldest military medal in the United States. It was created in 1782 by General George Washington, who used it to honor those who conducted acts of bravery during the Revolutionary War. General MacArthur revived the medal. More than 80,000 purple heart license plates have been issued in Washington. Designating Interstate 5 as the "Purple Heart Trail" would be a great honor and would help to remind people of the sacrifices made. It is important to remember that the designation would honor current veterans who are young and returning to the community after serving our country.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: Representative Seaquist, prime sponsor; and Mike Partridge, Veterans Legislative Coalition.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.