OLYMPIA, Wash. – When Washingtonians consider the governor’s office, they are most likely to think of its current occupant Or maybe their minds first go to the But an underappreciated part of Washington’s executive branch that often goes unnoticed is the boards and commissions system that animates the state’s policymaking process.
There are over 230 boards that advise the governor’s office, on a diverse array of topics ranging from to They often function as experts for specific policy areas.
The Committee on Disability Issues & Employment, which is currently recruiting new members, advises the governor on regulations pertaining to people with disabilities and has testified before the state legislature.
Washington’s LGBTQ Commission holds a similar advocacy function for queer people, and has advised the governor’s office
While these boards have political influence, they can only impact policy by coordinating with lawmakers. Because they are advisory in nature, they can recommend new regulations or laws to the governor’s office, but are not a direct part of the policy process.
Despite their lack of direct legislative power, several commissions have become a visible part of Washington politics, including the and the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs.
Commission and board members are appointed by the governor and are usually selected for their expertise or lived experience in a particular policy area. Running for office is a more visible way to influence state politics, but becoming a board or commission member is another underappreciated way to get involved.
