Official Actions

The governor of Washington state is responsible for a number of official actions outlined in state law (Revised Code of Washington 43.06). When the governor takes an official action, you can find them posted here:

  • Bill action includes bill passed by the Legislature that the governor plans to take action on, as well as details of bills already signed or vetoed.
  • Directives are issued by the governor, usually to a specific agency or set of agencies, directing a certain action to be taken.
  • Executive orders are formal orders issued by the governor to cabinet agencies statewide requiring that certain actions be taken. Executive orders may have the force and effect of a law.
  • Flag lowering - the governor will direct the flag to be lowered to half-staff on certain occasions.
  • Judicial appointments made by the governor in the instance of a midterm vacancy. 
  • Proclamations are formal public declarations from the governor. Often proclamations declare states of emergency or call the Legislature into a special session.