Washington Administrative Code Title 34 - Asian Pacific American Affairs, Commission on
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 34 is specifically dedicated to the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA). This Commission is a state agency within the office of the Governor, established by RCW 43.117.030, with a crucial mandate to improve the well-being of Asian Pacific Americans in Washington State.
The regulations within Title 34 primarily outline the organization and operation of CAPAA and its responsibilities, ensuring transparency and proper functioning.
Here's a breakdown of the key areas typically covered in WAC Title 34:
Chapter 34-02: General Provisions
Organization and Operation of the Commission (§ 34-02-010):
Purpose: This section clearly states that the Commission exists to improve the well-being of Asian Pacific Americans by ensuring their participation in government, business, and education, and by helping them obtain governmental services to promote the health, safety, and welfare of all state residents. The duties are further described in Chapter 43.117 RCW (Revised Code of Washington).
Policy Decisions: All basic policy decisions are made by the Commission at its regular and special meetings.
Staffing: The Commission has an Executive Director (appointed by the Governor based on Commission recommendations) and staff hired by the Executive Director.
Committees: The Commission maintains at least two mandatory standing committees:
Executive Committee: Responsible for reviewing major news releases, increasing public knowledge of the Commission, and conducting delegated business.
Nominations Committee: Responsible for developing procedures to recommend Commission and Executive Director appointees.
Other committees can be formed to address various issues affecting Asian Pacific Americans.
Administrative Office: The WAC specifies the location of the central administrative office.
Definitions: This chapter would include definitions of key terms relevant to the Commission's work and the application of its rules.
Commissioners: While not explicitly detailed in the provided WAC snippets, the underlying RCW specifies that the Commission is an advisory board of 12 commissioners appointed by the Governor, representing the diverse Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities across Washington State. Their role involves:
Ensuring community voices are heard in state government.
Informing communities about relevant laws and policies.
Advocating for policies and services that meet community needs.
Participating in various committees focusing on areas like Civil Rights & Justice, Education, Health & Human Services, and Economic Development.
Chapter 34-04: Public Records
This chapter would detail the rules and procedures governing the availability and disclosure of public records held by the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs, in compliance with Washington's Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). This typically includes:
Procedures for requesting records.
Information on fees for copying records.
Exemptions from public disclosure.
Review processes for denials of requests.
Overall Role and Function of CAPAA (as informed by RCW and practice):
Beyond the administrative rules, the broader role of the Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs, as mandated by state law (RCW 43.117), includes:
Research and Analysis: Examining and defining issues pertaining to the rights and needs of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders (ANHPIs), and making recommendations to the Governor, legislators, and state agencies for program and law changes.
Advisory and Advocacy: Advising state and local public officials on developing and implementing comprehensive policies, plans, and programs that address the special problems and needs of ANHPIs.
Education: Educating ANHPI communities about laws, programs, and policies that affect their well-being.
Conduit and Consultant: Serving as a bridge between ANHPI communities and state agencies to make government more accessible.
Resource: Providing resources through research, educational materials, technical assistance, agency referrals, and community forums.
In summary, WAC Title 34 provides the formal rules for how the Washington State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs operates, ensuring it effectively carries out its mission to advocate for and serve the diverse Asian Pacific American communities throughout the state, working to address issues and promote equity and well-being.
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