The Lieutenant Governor, elected independently of the Governor, has a constitutional responsibility to act as Governor if the Governor is unable to perform his/her duties; serve as the presiding officer (President) of the Senate; and discharge other duties prescribed by law. The Lieutenant Governor represents the state at public and private functions, and serves on various executive and legislative committees. Staff assists the Lieutenant Governor with administrative support, communicating with the public, and representing the Lieutenant Governor’s policy recommendations to the Legislature.

The Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations was established by RCW 43.15.060 to provide responsive and consistent involvement by the Legislature in economic development in order to maintain a healthy state economy and provide employment opportunities to Washington residents. The Lieutenant Governor serves as Chair and appoints the members. Effective July 1, 2003 the Legislature transferred all operational and support responsibilities for this committee to the Office of Lieutenant Governor. Related to this, the Lieutenant Governor acts in an ambassadorial role for the state by meeting with foreign officials and others both in Washington state and abroad.