Senate unanimously passes SB 5489 recognizing Wilkinson sandstone as state sandstone

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Senate on Feb. 13, 2026 passed Senate Bill 5489, recognizing Wilkinson sandstone and authorizing a plaque honoring the material's historical role in state buildings. The bill advanced to third reading under a suspension of the rules and was placed on final passage.

Senator Mike Fortunato, the bill's sponsor, framed the measure as a remedy tied to a nearly century-old record. Fortunato said the city of Wilkinson found a 1927 letter from Mayor Ellis Robert to the state treasurer asking for repayment of $56,718.50 and included a copy of a contract that specified 5 percent for late payments. "There is a letter from the town of Wilkinson to the state treasurer asking for $56,718.50," Fortunato said as he described the bill's backstory and a resulting compromise to recognize Wilkinson sandstone and provide a commemorative plaque.

Several senators voiced support on the floor. Senator Valdez praised sponsor persistence and urged colleagues to "join me in voting yes," while Senator McKeown noted the sandstone's longevity, saying it "held up through the 2001 earthquake," reinforcing the material's historical significance.

The secretary called the roll for final passage; the recorded vote was 48 yeas, 0 nays. Lieutenant Governor Hecht declared the bill passed and stated the bill's title would be the title of the act.

The bill's sponsor said the recognition also honors the quarry workers and local history tied to the state's public buildings. The senate recessed afterward for caucus and lunch.

Action recorded: SB 5489 advanced under suspension of rules, advanced to third reading and passed on final passage, recorded roll-call 48-0.