SENATE BILL REPORT
HJM 4002
As of March 18, 2025
Brief Description: Designating the bridge that carries Interstate 90 over the Columbia river near Vantage, Washington as the "Medal of Honor Bridge."
Sponsors: Representatives Dent, Paul, Barkis, Nance, Entenman, Orcutt, Klicker, Mena, Shavers, Dufault, Ormsby, Springer and Timmons.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/4/25, 95-0.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/20/25.
Brief Summary of Joint Memorial
  • Requests the Washington State Transportation Commission commence proceedings to designate the bridge that carries Interstate 90 over the Columbia River near Vantage, Washington as the "Medal of Honor Bridge." 
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
Staff: Daniel Masterson (786-7454)
Background:

Naming Highways. The Washington State Transportation Commission (Commission) is responsible for naming state transportation facilities, including highways and bridges. The Commission naming 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."
 
The naming process can be initiated by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), state and local governmental entities, citizen organizations, or an individual providing sufficient evidence to the Commission indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal. Alternatively, the Legislature may pass a joint memorial requesting a facility be named, at which point the Commission will hold a public hearing to allow public input. After the Commission takes final action, WSDOT designs and installs the appropriate signs.

 

Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is the nation's highest military award given for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.
Summary of Joint Memorial:

The Legislature requests the Commission commence proceedings to designate the bridge that carries Interstate 90 over the Columbia River near Vantage, Washington as the "Medal of Honor Bridge" as a way for the state to show respect and remember medal of honor recipients. 
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.