This bill establishes a new legislative office on Indian affairs in Washington State, aimed at enhancing the government-to-government relationship between the state and American Indian nations. The office will provide educational and informational resources to legislative members and professional legislative staff, focusing on issues of mutual concern, including training on tribal sovereignty, cultural awareness, and best practices for policymaking. The office is intended to complement the existing governor's office of Indian affairs, rather than replace it, and will not serve as a liaison between the legislature and tribal leaders.

The bill includes several new sections that outline the office's purpose, structure, and responsibilities. It mandates annual training for professional legislative staff and encourages participation from legislative members. The office will be directed by a director employed by the secretary of the senate and the chief clerk of the house of representatives, who will also oversee the hiring of additional personnel as needed. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to incorporate the legislative office on Indian affairs into the definitions of legislative agencies and outlines its operational policies and procedures. Sections 5 and 6 of the act will take effect on July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 44.80.020, 44.90.020