Committee advances bill to create Capitol memorial described as 'war on terror'; some members urge title review

House Bill 2,514, which would establish a global 'war on terror' memorial on the Capitol Campus, was reported out of the Capital Budget Committee with a due-pass recommendation after debate.

John Wilson DePally, committee staff, said there are no amendments to the bill. Representative Waters urged support, saying the memorial would honor those who served in Operation Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan and express gratitude to families who lost loved ones. Representative Waters said the bill "helps all the families in the state of Washington who have seen their loved ones go to war and perhaps not return." (Representative Waters).

Representative Parsley said she supports honoring sacrifices but objected to the bill’s title. She said that using the term "war on terror" risks profiling and urged that the memorial also recognize innocent lives lost and veterans who die by suicide; she stated she would vote "no without recommendation." Representative Lovett urged a yes vote while acknowledging concerns about the title and suggesting the work group continue refining terminology.

Staff called the roll and announced a final tally of 12 yeas, 4 nays, and 3 excused. By that vote, HB 2,514 was reported out of committee with a due-pass recommendation. Committee leaders said further amendment conversations and work-group consideration of language could follow as the bill moves to the floor.