Designating the state shark.
SB 6108 designates the bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus), also called the cow shark, as Washington's official state shark. The bill cites this species' unique features - like having six gill slits instead of five - and its presence in Puget Sound waters, where it's regularly observed near Des Moines (called the "sixgill capital of the world"). The designation is purely symbolic, aiming to raise public awareness about marine ecosystems and encourage educational efforts for this deep-water species. It does not create new regulations or affect any policies. The bill is procedural, with no enforcement mechanisms, and focuses solely on naming a state symbol.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 14, 2026
Last action Jan 14, 2026
Floor votes
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No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
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Total actions
1
Key actions
0
Committee
0
1 primary · 4 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Noel Frame
DDemocratic
Co
Claire Wilson
DDemocratic
Co
Jesse Salomon
DDemocratic
Co
Sharon Shewmake
DDemocratic
Co
T'wina Nobles
DDemocratic
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