Honoring the Washington State commercial fishing fleet.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sharon Shewmake

The bill formally honors Washington’s commercial fishing fleet, acknowledges risks and losses, and wishes a safe, prosperous season without new duties or spending.

Adopted.

Summary: Senate Resolution 8643 (SR 8643) – Honoring the Washington State commercial fishing fleet

Purpose and intent

SR 8643 is a ceremonial Senate resolution recognizing and honoring Washington State’s commercial fishing fleet. Adopted by the Senate on April 1, 2025, the resolution emphasizes the long-standing tradition and economic importance of both commercial and tribal fisheries to Washington families and communities. It expresses admiration for the bravery and perseverance of fishers and acknowledges the risks they face at sea.

Key provisions

Acknowledgement of tradition and economic importance: The resolution notes that the commercial and tribal fishing industries are vital to the state’s prosperity and to many Washington families’ well-being.

Recognition of risks and loss: It honors the courage of fishers who face dangerous conditions and acknowledges the grief felt by families and communities when lives are lost at sea.

Blessing and departure details: The resolution references the “blessing of the fleet” in Blaine Harbor on May 4, 2025, and notes that the Washington State commercial fishing fleet is set to depart for the Pacific in May 2025.

Condolences and well-wishes: The core action is the Senate’s expression of condolences to the families and friends of fishers who have lost their lives, along with a wish for a safe and prosperous season and a hope that all fishers return home safely.

Procedural and timeline context

Status: Adopted by the Washington State Senate.

Introduction and action date: Introduced and adopted on April 1, 2025.

Nature of document: A resolution (non-binding, ceremonial) rather than a statute or appropriation; does not create new programs or funding.

Affected parties

Primary: Washington State commercial fishing fleet and associated workers.

Secondary: Tribal fishing industries, their communities, and families dependent on fishing for livelihood and cultural continuity.

Broader public: Washington residents who rely on the fishing industry for economic activity and regional identity.

Significance and impact

The resolution serves as an official, symbolic recognition of the fleet’s contributions and risks.

It provides a formal platform to honor those lost at sea and to publicly wish for a safe, prosperous season.

As a ceremonial measure, it does not impose new duties or authorize spending, but it may influence public perception and reaffirm support for the fishing industry.