Washington Administrative Code Title 34 - Asian Pacific American Affairs, Commission on
1. Purpose of WAC Title 34
Title 34 establishes the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs in Washington State. The commission’s primary role is to:
Advocate for the needs, concerns, and interests of Asian Pacific Americans (APAs) in the state.
Promote equal opportunity in state programs and services.
Advise the Governor and Legislature on policies affecting APA communities.
Serve as a liaison between APA communities and government agencies.
Essentially, it is a body meant to ensure that Asian Pacific Americans have a voice in state government and access to resources, while promoting understanding and equity.
2. Composition of the Commission
The WAC specifies how the commission is structured:
Members: Usually, the commission consists of a set number of members appointed by the Governor. These members are generally representatives of diverse APA communities.
Qualifications: Members are selected based on their knowledge of APA issues, leadership experience, and community involvement.
Term: Each member serves a specified term (often 3 years, renewable depending on rules).
Chairperson: The Governor may appoint a chairperson from among the commission members to lead meetings and activities.
3. Duties and Responsibilities
The commission has several key responsibilities under WAC Title 34:
Policy Advice and Recommendations:
The commission advises the Governor, Legislature, and state agencies on matters affecting APA communities, including:
Education
Health care
Employment and labor issues
Social services
Community Outreach:
The commission organizes programs and forums to engage APA communities and gather feedback on public policy and services.
Research and Reporting:
Conduct studies on issues affecting APA communities.
Provide annual or periodic reports to the Governor and Legislature summarizing findings, challenges, and recommendations.
Advocacy:
Promote awareness of APA contributions and challenges.
Work with state agencies to ensure equitable treatment of APA communities.
Collaboration:
Partner with other commissions, non-profits, and government departments to address cross-cultural and social equity issues.
4. Meetings and Procedures
The WAC also outlines how the commission operates internally:
Meeting Frequency: The commission meets regularly (often quarterly or as needed) to discuss initiatives, review issues, and make recommendations.
Quorum Requirements: A minimum number of members must be present to conduct official business.
Decision-Making: Decisions are generally made by a majority vote of members present.
Record-Keeping: Minutes of meetings and reports are maintained for transparency and accountability.
5. Limitations and Restrictions
While the commission has advisory powers, it does not have regulatory or enforcement authority. Its role is primarily:
Advisory
Research-oriented
Advocacy-focused
It cannot create laws, enforce regulations, or directly fund programs on its own. Its effectiveness relies on its recommendations being taken up by state decision-makers.
6. Authority
The commission operates under state law, which is codified in the Washington Administrative Code. Its authority is derived from statutes passed by the Washington State Legislature establishing it as the official body for APA affairs.
Summary
In simple terms:
WAC Title 34 establishes the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs.
The commission represents APA communities in Washington State.
It advises the government, conducts research, engages communities, and promotes equal opportunity.
Members are appointed by the Governor, and the commission cannot enforce laws but acts as a voice and advocate for APA issues.
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