Evidence-based decisions

WHEREAS, Science and scientific research are essential to the 1
advancement of knowledge, innovation, and the well-being of society; 2
and 3
WHEREAS, The scientific process, rooted in observation, 4
experimentation, peer review, and the pursuit of facts, provides the 5
most reliable method for understanding the natural world and solving 6
complex challenges; and 7
WHEREAS, Discoveries in science and technology have led to 8
groundbreaking advancements in medicine, agriculture, clean energy, 9
public health, and other critical fields, improving the quality of 10
life for people in Washington and beyond; and 11
WHEREAS, Scientific research has contributed to lifesaving 12
measures such as vaccines, disease treatments, emergency 13
preparedness, and environmental protection, safeguarding public 14
health and safety; and 15
WHEREAS, Climate science plays a vital role in understanding and 16
mitigating the impacts of climate change, protecting Washington's 17
environment, natural resources, and communities from extreme weather, 18
wildfires, and rising sea levels; and 19
WHEREAS, Investment in clean energy, environmental science, and 20
sustainable technology is key to fostering a healthier planet, a more 21
resilient economy, and a livable future; and 22
SENATE RESOLUTION
8651
By Senators Slatter, Harris, Cleveland, Cortes, Hasegawa, Krishnadasan, Lovelett,
Orwall, Shewmake, Stanford, Trudeau, Valdez, Wellman, Conway, and Warnick
p. 1 8651
WHEREAS, The exploration of space has led to scientific 1
breakthroughs that benefit everyday life, from satellite 2
communications to earth monitoring, and has expanded humanity's 3
understanding of the universe; and 4
WHEREAS, Research on the atom has revolutionized medicine, 5
energy, and technology, including the promise of nuclear fusion 6
as a clean and virtually limitless source of power; and7
WHEREAS, The science of human behavior and neuroscience 8
provides valuable insights into mental health, education, 9
workplace dynamics, and public policy, improving individual and 10
societal well-being; and 11
WHEREAS, Washington's higher education institutions, 12
including its public universities and research centers, play a 13
vital role in advancing scientific discovery, educating 14
scientists, and driving economic growth; and 15
WHEREAS, Fostering diversity in STEM fields strengthens 16
research outcomes, broadens perspectives, and ensures that 17
scientific advancements serve all communities equitably; and18
WHEREAS, Continued investment in STEM education, research 19
funding, and workforce development ensures that Washington 20
remains at the forefront of scientific progress and 21
technological advancement; and 22
WHEREAS, Public trust in science and evidence-based thinking 23
is essential for addressing public health crises, technological 24
advancements, and the ethical use of emerging innovations such 25
as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and 26
biotechnology; 27
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate honor the 28
contributions of science, scientific research, and evidence-29
based decision making in all areas of policy and governance; and30
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize the 31
investments in scientific research, higher education, and 32
innovation to ensure Washington remains a leader in discovery, 33
technological advancement, and the pursuit of knowledge for the 34
public good. 35
I, Sarah Bannister, Secretary of the Senate, 36
do hereby certify that this is a true and 37
p. 2 8651
correct copy of Senate Resolution 8651, 1
adopted by the Senate 2
April 18, 2025 3
SARAH BANNISTER 4
Secretary of the Senate 5
p. 3 8651