LEGISLATIVE STEERING COMMITTEE AGENDA - Wacounties.org

2012 Legislative Steering Committee
Operating Procedures
Background
The Washington State Association of Counties Legislative Steering Committee (LSC) is
authorized in the by-laws of the organization, and is
“[R]esponsible to prepare and recommended a proposed
legislative program for consideration of the membership at the
Annual Meeting. The Legislative Steering Committee shall monitor
events of each legislative session and shall be empowered to
adopt policy relating to legislation, executive branch policies and
operation, and the activities of other organizations and
associations.” 1
As such, the LSC demands a significant commitment from its members. LSC members have
frequent interaction, particularly during the state’s legislative session with legislators, agency
staff, and representatives of other lobbying organizations.
The body is composed of one member from each of WSAC’s member counties as well as each
of the four County Executives. The LSC has two co-chairs that are appointed biennially by the
WSAC President. Co-chairs may not also serve as members of the WSAC Executive
Committee.
In addition to setting the policy direction for the association through the Legislative Agenda (see
below for more detail), LSC members are expected to attend regular meetings during legislative
session and to communicate with legislators regarding WSAC’s legislative priorities.
Successful LSC Interactions – LSC Member Expectations
The LSC is representative of the entire WSAC membership, and its members hold diverse and
often disparate views. While the association tries to focus on solutions that are effective for all
counties, LSC discussions can become contentious. Sometimes these discussions are rooted
in political differences. In order to be an effective body, members are asked to work toward the
middle to find compromise. Above all, it is crucial that LSC members conduct themselves in a
civil and amicable manner.
1 Section 3.18, WSAC By-­‐Laws.
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