SB 5325
In CommitteeSenate
State cactus
Designating the state cactus.
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 officially names the Pediocactus nigrispinus—a small, spiny cactus native to eastern Washington—as the state's official cactus. It does not create new rules or funding but serves as an honorary designation to highlight this native plant.
- Designates the Pediocactus nigrispinus (also known as the basalt cactus, snowball cactus, hedgehog cactus, or Columbia plateau cactus) as the official cactus of Washington State.
- Adds this designation to the state's official symbols code in chapter 1.20 RCW.
- Recognizes the cactus as a native species found in the Columbia Basin region of eastern Washington.
Who is affected
- General public — This designation has no direct impact on individuals or organizations, but may foster local pride and educational efforts about native Washington plants.
- Schools and educators — May use the designation in educational materials, signage, or conservation outreach related to native flora.
- State parks and natural resource agencies — May reference the new designation in interpretive programs or signage at state parks and natural areas where the cactus grows.
Pro/Con Analysis
Stronger case for benefits
Potential Benefits (3)
The official designation raises public awareness of native Washington flora, particularly the Pediocactus nigrispinus, which may support environmental education in schools, parks, and conservation outreach programs.
EducationRef: Sec. 1, adding new RCW 1.20.150State and local agencies (e.g., parks, museums, conservation districts) may use the designation to develop interpretive signage, educational materials, and ecotourism initiatives highlighting regional biodiversity in the Columbia Basin.
Local GovernmentRef: Sec. 1, adding new RCW 1.20.150Increased public recognition of this native cactus may reduce accidental trampling or disturbance in sensitive habitats, indirectly supporting habitat preservation and soil stability in fragile desert ecosystems.
Public SafetyRef: Sec. 1, adding new RCW 1.20.150
Who Is Most Affected
May experience modest educational and civic benefits through increased awareness of local ecology; no financial or regulatory impact.
Educators and curriculum developers may incorporate the cactus into biology, ecology, or Washington history lessons; no cost or burden imposed.
State parks and natural resource agencies may use the designation to enhance interpretive programming and visitor engagement; no fiscal or operational burden.
Native plant nurseries and conservation groups may see increased interest in propagation and habitat restoration; however, no funding or regulatory support is provided.
Landowners in the Columbia Basin may gain informal recognition of their region’s ecological uniqueness, but no legal protections or financial incentives are created.