Submitted by Washington State Legislative Youth Advisory Council
“As the Washington Legislative Youth Advisory Council, we strive to be a voice for youth, examine issues of importance to Washington youth, and vocalize concerns to legislators. We also work to promote youth participation in state and municipal governments and foster long lasting relationships between state legislators, adults, and young people.” -Mission Statement
The Washington State Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) is a 22-member council of 14-18 year-old students from across the state of Washington. Applications are reviewed by the Council and the final selection is conducted by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Students serve two year terms.
Meetings typically take place three to six times a year in Olympia or the greater Seattle area. Students are expected to attend all Council meetings and activities. Occasionally, meetings are planned during the school week, especially during the legislative session; many students are asked to take a day off from school. Meetings are usually one day events, but there are occasional overnight meetings. Outside of the scheduled meetings, Council members are asked to continue the Council’s work by contacting legislators to advise on pending legislation, drafting letters and legislative reports, reaching out to other youth and community organizations, and participating in Council conference calls.
Once the application deadline passes, select Council members hold an Application Review Committee meeting where Council members review and score each application. The Council may then choose to hold phone interviews with the finalists before making final recommendations to the Lieutenant Governor’s office.
To request an application or learn more, contact the Council by emailing lyac@leg.wa.gov
