Resolution re-dedicating I-15 at Veterans Memorial Highway passes House

SALT LAKE CITY — A resolution rededicating I-15 in Utah as Veterans Memorial Highway and urging greater appreciation of the contributions made by the nation's veterans was approved Friday by the House.

The sponsor of HCR7, Rep. Chris Herrod, R-Provo, said he wants the state's veterans "to know I have great appreciation for the service they have given." He said his own father served in Vietnam.

The designation of I-15 is not well-known, even by lawmakers. Herrod said the federal government permits only limited signage with the designation.

"I'm embarrassed to say this was news to me," said House Majority Whip Greg Hughes, R-Draper. Hughes said the purpose of the resolution was not "to commemorate or be flowery. This is serious."

He said the nation owes a debt to its veterans, including the new generation returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. "I don't think we can do enough," Hughes said.

The resolution passed 71-0 and now goes to the Senate. 

— Lisa Riley Roche Twitter: dnewspolitics