Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government Committee

HB 2736

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Encouraging the governor to prioritize gender equality when making appointments and reappointments to state boards, commissions, and councils.

Sponsors: Representatives Frame, Moscoso, S. Hunt, Walkinshaw, Hudgins, Ortiz-Self, Stanford, Kagi, Senn, Jinkins, Sawyer, Fey, Gregerson and Kilduff.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Encourages the governor to prioritize gender equality in gubernatorial appointments and reappointments to state boards, commissions, councils, and similar entities.

  • Requires the governor to report on progress made toward the goal of 50 percent female membership for state boards, commissions, councils, and similar entities by December 1, 2018.

Hearing Date: 1/28/16

Staff: Dawn Eychaner (786-7135).

Background:

The governor serves as the appointing authority for more than 200 state boards and commissions. Citizens wishing to serve on a governor-appointed body submit a resume and application containing information regarding education, employment, and civic service experience to the governor's Boards and Commissions Office. While not required, personal information such as gender, date of birth, voter registration status, race, and disability status is requested as part of the application. Applications submitted for gubernatorial appointments are subject to public disclosure.

Summary of Bill:

The governor is encouraged to prioritize gender equality when making appointments and reappointments to state boards, commissions, councils, or similar entities. By December 1, 2018, the governor must report to the legislature on progress made towards the goal of 50 percent female membership on boards, commissions, councils, and similar entities for which the governor is the appointing authority.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on 01/20/16.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.