Today, the Washington State Senate passed Sen. Judy Warnick’s measure to designate Pediocactus nigrispinus—commonly known as the Columbia Plateau cactus or snowball cactus—as Washington’s official state cactus. The bill was approved 47-2.

The Columbia Plateau cactus is unique for its ability to thrive in extreme temperatures and its beautiful pink-to-magenta blooms.

Several Ellensburg-area elementary students brought the proposal to Warnick after researching the cactus, which is native to arid regions of Central Washington. The students decided the native cactus, which has a round shape and white spines, is a fitting symbol for the state’s rugged interior.

“I’ll tell you, my heart is just full seeing the Senate come together like this,” said Warnick, R-Moses Lake. “Sometimes folks think Olympia is all about the thorny issues but today was about celebrating some pretty sharp kids. These students didn’t just send a letter; they rolled up their sleeves, did their homework, and showed us all how the ‘people’s government’ is supposed to work. I’m honored that we could recognize their effort by passing this bill with such broad support.”

Warnick also took a moment to recognize Brooklyn Edgar, the teacher who helped guide the students through the legislative process.

“We can’t forget the teachers who helped nurture these students’ curiosity and actions,” Warnick added. “It takes a lot of patience to guide a class through the twists and turns of making a law. They’re teaching these kids that their voices matter, and that’s a lesson that’ll last a lifetime.”

Senate Bill 5325 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.