SB 5000
In CommitteeSenate
State nickname
Adopting the evergreen state as the state nickname.
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 adopts 'the evergreen state' as Washington’s official state nickname, recognizing its long-standing informal use. It also clarifies that no state or local agency must change existing materials as a result.
- Designates 'the evergreen state' as the official nickname of Washington State.
- Confirms that the nickname has long been used informally through word of mouth, storytelling, and on license plates.
- Clarifies that the nickname reflects the state’s evergreen foliage, which stays green and functional beyond a single growing season.
- States that the law does not require any state or local entity to update existing documents, materials, or publications.
Who is affected
- State and local government agencies — The state government and its agencies may choose to use the official nickname in formal communications, but are not required to update existing documents or materials.
- Washington residents and businesses — Residents and businesses may see the official nickname used more consistently in state branding or educational materials, but no changes are mandated for private entities.
- Public schools and universities — Educational institutions may incorporate the official nickname into teaching materials about state symbols, but are not required to revise existing curricula.
Pro/Con Analysis
Stronger case for benefits
Potential Benefits (3)
Formal adoption of the official nickname provides symbolic recognition of Washington’s identity and natural characteristics (evergreen foliage), reinforcing state pride and educational consistency.
Local GovernmentRef: Sec. 1, Sec. 2Explicit non-mandate language prevents unnecessary administrative burden on state and local agencies, avoiding costly or time-consuming updates to existing materials.
Local GovernmentRef: Sec. 3Provides a clear, standardized reference for educators to use in teaching about state symbols, improving curriculum consistency without requiring new resources.
EducationRef: Sec. 1
Who Is Most Affected
State and local agencies may optionally update signage or official documents to reflect the formal nickname, but are not required to do so—resulting in minimal operational impact.
Residents may benefit from increased state identity cohesion and pride, especially in educational or tourism contexts, but no direct economic or legal change occurs.
Businesses (e.g., tourism, education, publishing) may use the official nickname more confidently in marketing or materials, but no regulatory or financial advantage is created.
Public schools and universities gain a standardized reference for teaching state symbols, but no curriculum overhaul or additional funding is required.