HOUSE BILL REPORT

SJM 8012

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.

Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 25 members: Representatives Clibborn, Chair; Farrell, Vice Chair; Fey, Vice Chair; Moscoso, Vice Chair; Orcutt, Ranking Minority Member; Hargrove, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Bergquist, Gregerson, Harmsworth, Hayes, Kochmar, McBride, Moeller, Morris, Ortiz-Self, Pike, Riccelli, Rodne, Sells, Shea, Takko, Tarleton, Wilson, Young and Zeiger.

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 designate United States Highway 101 as the North Olympic Peninsula Medal of Honor Memorial Highway to honor those who served and sacrificed their lives. United States Highway 101 from two miles east of the Jefferson and Clallam County line to one mile east of the line in Jefferson County would honor Thaddeus S. Smith. United States Highway 101 from one mile east of the Jefferson County line to the Clallam County line would honor Marvin G. Shields. United States Highway 101 from one mile west of the Clallam County line to two miles west of the line would honor Richard B. Anderson. Copies of the memorial must be forwarded to the Secretary of Transportation, the WSTC, and the WSDOT.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) This is an outstanding way to recognize the heroism of these gentlemen. The state has a Purple Heart Trail and this would be a continuation of that. The Olympic Peninsula has four recipients of the Medal of Honor, two from the Civil War, one from the Vietnam War, and the other from World War 2, all of which would be honored by this memorial.

(Opposed) None.