The Assembly Committee on Legislative Operations and Elections convened on May 1, 2025, to discuss several key topics, with a notable focus on a resolution urging the creation of a postage stamp commemorating John Snowshoe Thompson, a historical figure known for his remarkable mail delivery service across the Sierra Nevada mountains in the 19th century.

Senator Robin Titus, representing Senate District 17, introduced Senate Joint Resolution 9 (SJR 9) alongside co-presenters, including her intern Catherine Villasenor and Stephen McMurren Wills from the Snowshoe Thompson chapter of E Clampus Vitus. Senator Titus expressed gratitude to the committee for the opportunity to present the resolution, emphasizing Thompson's significant contributions to mail delivery during harsh winter conditions.

Catherine Villasenor provided a detailed account of Thompson's life, highlighting his journey from Norway to America and his pivotal role as a mail carrier from Placerville, California, to Genoa, Nevada. She recounted how Thompson, despite not receiving payment for his services, made numerous treks through deep snow, often carrying heavy loads and rescuing stranded travelers. His dedication to delivering mail and supplies earned him a heroic status, and he is remembered through various memorials, including a bronze statue in Genoa.

The resolution aims to honor Thompson's legacy by advocating for a commemorative postage stamp to be issued on April 30, 2027, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of his birth. The committee discussed the resolution's clauses, which detail Thompson's challenges and heroism, and expressed support for the initiative to urge the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee and the Postmaster General to approve the proposal.

Stephen McMurren Wills shared his personal connection to Thompson's legacy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing his contributions through a postage stamp that could circulate globally. The meeting included a demonstration of skis similar to those used by Thompson, along with a musical tribute that celebrated his life and achievements.

Assemblymember Cole raised a question regarding the potential designation of the stamp as a "forever stamp," to which Senator Titus responded that discussions with the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee would determine the stamp's classification.

The meeting concluded with a sense of enthusiasm for the resolution, reflecting the committee's appreciation for Thompson's historical significance and the desire to honor his memory through this commemorative stamp. The next steps involve further discussions and potential actions to advance the resolution within the legislative process.