Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5151

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  

Caption

Revised for 1st Substitute: Updating the executive team of the office of the secretary of state by adding signing authority to the chief of staff position.Original: Updating the executive team of the office of the secretary of state by adding a chief of staff position.

Impact

The impact of SB 5151 on state laws revolves around increasing the executive power of the secretary of state's office. By providing the chief of staff with signing authority, the legislation potentially reduces the bottleneck of administrative approvals and delegates more responsibility within the executive team. As a result, the office may operate more effectively, enhancing public service delivery and responsiveness to citizens.

Summary

Senate Bill 5151 aims to revise the executive structure of the secretary of state's office by enhancing the authority of the chief of staff position. The bill proposes that the chief of staff be granted signing authority, which could streamline decision-making processes within the office and improve overall administrative efficiency. This modification is positioned to modernize the office of the secretary of state and reflect contemporary governance practices.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 5151 appears to be supportive among legislators who prioritize modernizing government operations and enhancing efficacy within state administrative structures. By updating the executive roles, proponents argue that the bill addresses current demands for quicker and more integrated governance, thereby benefiting constituents directly. However, some skepticism exists regarding the concentration of authority, raising questions about checks and balances within the executive branch.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 5151 include concerns about the implications of expanded executive authority. Critics argue that adding signing authority to the chief of staff could lead to an imbalance in power distribution within the office, potentially undermining accountability. Observers are urged to consider whether this change enhances governmental effectiveness or poses risks related to oversight and decision-making processes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1259

Updating the executive team of the office of the secretary of state by adding signing authority to the chief of staff position.

WA S3688

Establishes Office of the State Chief Efficiency Officer and Efficiency Officer positions in each State Executive Branch department.

WA SB5584

Revised for 1st Substitute: Establishing the position of independent prosecutor within the office of the governor.

WA LB279

Change and eliminate provisions relating to executive officers of banks

WA SB5245

Revised for 1st Substitute: Authorizing county commissioners to administer oaths of office to state legislators.

WA HB1825

Updating teacher compensation at the Washington state center for deaf and hard of hearing youth and the state school for the blind.

WA SB5071

Revised for 1st Substitute: Updating the endangerment with a controlled substance statute to include fentanyl or synthetic opioids.

WA SB6154

Revised for 1st Substitute: Updating process service requirements in Washington state for business entities and motorists.Original: Updating process service requirements for corporations in Washington state.

WA HB1896

Increasing local law enforcement officers by authorizing a local sales and use tax credited against the state portion to hire additional officers and increasing the number of basic law enforcement courses offered by the criminal justice training commission.

WA SB5232

Revised for 1st Substitute: Supporting economic security by updating provisions related to the home security fund and the essential needs and housing support program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.