Efficient, Effective and Accountable Government

The Governor is the chief executive officer of the state, responsible for the overall administration of the affairs of the state of Washington. The Office of the Governor includes staff members who assist the Governor with administrative support, communicating with the public, and representing the Governor's policy recommendations to the Legislature.

The Executive Mansion is provided by the state for the Governor's residential use and to fulfill ceremonial responsibilities. The Governor's personal expenses are the responsibility of the Governor and are not included in the mansion budget.

The Office of the Family and Children's Ombudsman (OFCO) is responsible for investigating complaints against state agencies involving the protection of children from abuse and neglect, and/or the provision of child welfare services. OFCO researches issues facing the child protection/welfare system and recommends changes for improvements.

The Education Ombudsman was created to advocate on behalf of elementary and secondary students and to provide information and investigative services to parents, students, and others regarding their rights and responsibilities in the state's public elementary and secondary education system, and advocating on behalf of elementary and secondary schools.

The Office of the Corrections Ombuds was created to strengthen procedures and practices that lessen the possibility of actions occurring within the Department of Corrections and that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, and rehabilitation of offenders. As appropriate, investigate and report on complaints from inmates, family members, representatives of inmates, department employees or others, regarding items that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of inmates.

The Women’s Commission shall address issues relevant to the problems and needs of women, such as domestic violence, childcare, child support, sexual discrimination, sexual harassment, equal compensation and job pathways opportunities in employment, and the specific needs of women of color.

The Oversight Board for Children, Youth and Families is responsible for monitoring and ensuring the Department of Children, Youth and Families achieves stated outcomes, and complies with administrative acts, relevant statutes, rules, and policies pertaining to early learning, juvenile rehabilitation, juvenile justice, and children and family services.

The Washington State LGBTQ Commission is responsible for improving the state’s interface with the LGBTQ community, identifying the needs of its members, and ensuring there is an effective means of advocating for LGBTQ equity. The Commission monitors state legislation and advocates for legislation affecting LGBTQ people, working with state agencies to assess programs and policies that affect LGBTQ people. The Commission also coordinates with the Minority Commissions, Women’s Commission, and Human Rights Commission to address issues of mutual concern and works as a liaison between the public and private sector to eliminate barriers to economic and health equity for LGBTQ people.

The Washington State Office of Equity is tasked with promoting access to equitable opportunities and resources that reduce disparities and improve outcomes statewide across state government. The Office of Equity envisions everyone having full access to the opportunities and resources they need to flourish and achieve their full potential.