AN ACT Relating to designating the bluntnose sixgill shark as the state shark;
Summary
SB 6108 designates the bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus) as the official state shark of Washington. The bill includes legislative findings describing the species as a unique and iconic marine animal associated with Washington’s coastal and Puget Sound waters, noting that it is one of the few shark species with six gill slits and that it can be observed in Washington’s inland marine waters. The findings also emphasize the species’ scientific interest, its long evolutionary history, and the role of Washington as a place where residents, researchers, and divers can regularly observe it in its natural habitat.
The bill’s stated purpose is largely symbolic and educational. It says the designation will promote public awareness of Washington’s marine ecosystems, encourage science-based education, and support efforts to preserve and protect the species for future generations. The bill adds a new section to chapter 1 RCW to formally name the bluntnose sixgill shark as the official shark of the state of Washington.
Impact
SB 6108 would amend Washington law by adding a new section to chapter 1 RCW establishing an official state shark. It does not create regulatory requirements, penalties, or funding changes, but it does formally recognize the bluntnose sixgill shark in state statute and may be used in educational, tourism, and conservation contexts. The bill primarily affects state symbolic law and public-facing references to Washington’s marine identity, while indirectly highlighting marine science and species preservation efforts.
Sentiment
The available bill text suggests a strongly positive and celebratory tone, with the legislature framing the shark as an iconic part of Washington’s natural heritage. The bill’s findings and purpose language are supportive of marine education and conservation, and there is no recorded committee opposition or vote history in the provided materials. Overall, the sentiment appears favorable and noncontroversial, centered on state pride, science education, and environmental awareness.
Contention
No specific points of contention are shown in the provided transcripts or vote history, and none are reflected in the bill text. If any debate existed, it would most likely have centered on whether a symbolic designation is an appropriate use of legislation or whether another species should receive the honor. Based on the materials provided, however, the bill appears to have been presented as a lighthearted, broadly positive recognition of a distinctive Washington marine species rather than a contested policy measure.
AN ACT Relating to modifying shared leave provisions to authorize shared leave for victims of a hate crime and those whose absence is due to immigration enforcement actions against the employee or the employee's relative;