HB 2447
In CommitteeHouse
State shark
Designating the state shark.
This status may be delayed. See Action History below for the latest updates.
How does a bill become law?
- Introduced: The bill is filed and assigned a number.
- Committee: A subject-matter committee holds hearings, takes public testimony, and decides whether to advance the bill.
- Floor Vote: The full chamber (House or Senate) debates and votes on the bill.
- Opposite Chamber: The bill repeats the committee and floor vote process in the other chamber.
- Governor: The Governor reviews the bill and decides whether to sign or veto it.
- Signed: The bill has been signed into law.
AI Analysis
This bill formally designates the bluntnose sixgill shark as Washington’s official state shark to raise awareness of local marine biodiversity and support conservation. It includes findings about the shark’s uniqueness, habitat, and educational value.
- Designates the bluntnose sixgill shark (*Hexanchus griseus*) as the official state shark of Washington.
- Includes a legislative finding that highlights the shark’s ecological significance, its presence in Puget Sound and coastal waters, and its status as a 'living relic' with six gill slits.
- Notes that Des Moines is recognized as the 'sixgill capital of the world' due to frequent sightings and research activity.
- States the designation aims to increase public awareness of Washington’s marine ecosystems, support science education, and promote species conservation.
Who is affected
- General public — Residents and visitors may gain greater awareness of local marine life through educational outreach and signage related to the state shark designation.
- Local governments and tourism boards — May benefit from increased tourism and educational programming tied to marine wildlife, especially in areas like Des Moines where sixgill sharks are frequently observed.
- Schools and educators — Will need to incorporate information about the state shark into educational materials and science curricula, though no new funding is required.
- Marine scientists and conservation organizations — May receive increased attention and support for ongoing research and conservation efforts focused on sixgill sharks and marine biodiversity.
Pro/Con Analysis
Stronger case for benefits
Potential Benefits (4)
The symbolic designation raises public awareness of local marine biodiversity and encourages responsible interaction with marine ecosystems — supporting informed stewardship and reducing accidental harm to this ecologically important species through increased public understanding.
Public SafetyPeopleRef: Sec. 1(1), Sec. 1(2), Sec. 2The bill supports science education by providing a tangible, locally relevant example of evolutionary biology and marine ecology — enhancing K–12 STEM engagement without requiring new funding, and leveraging existing outreach infrastructure (e.g., marine science centers, aquariums).
EducationPeopleRef: Sec. 1(3)The designation may stimulate eco-tourism and science-based educational programming in areas like Des Moines and Puget Sound coastal communities — potentially supporting local small businesses (e.g., dive operators, museums, nature centers), though this effect is likely modest and unguaranteed.
Business & EmploymentPeopleRef: Sec. 1(2), Sec. 1(3)By elevating the visibility of the bluntnose sixgill shark — a species vulnerable to bycatch and habitat degradation — the bill may strengthen public support for marine conservation policies and research, indirectly benefiting broader ecosystem health in Puget Sound and coastal waters.
EnvironmentPeopleRef: Sec. 1(1), Sec. 1(2)
Potential Concerns (1)
The bill requires schools and educators to incorporate information about the state shark into science curricula, but provides no additional funding or resources to support this effort — placing an uncompensated administrative burden on already-stretched public education staff.
EducationRef: Sec. 1(3)
Who Is Most Affected
General residents benefit from increased environmental literacy and pride in local natural heritage; no direct financial cost or burden.
Local governments and tourism boards may see modest increases in educational tourism and community programming opportunities, especially in Des Moines, but without new funding to support related outreach.
Schools and educators gain a ready-made, locally relevant teaching tool, but must absorb the time and effort to integrate it into existing curricula without additional support.
Marine scientists and conservation groups may benefit from heightened public interest and potential for increased volunteer engagement or donor interest, though the bill does not allocate new research funding.