Washington State Employment Security Department

The Legislative Workgroup meeting included discussions about creating a primer on word choice for effective legislator visits, developing a database of GCDE members' expertise in government engagement, and creating a Civics 101 guide. Volunteers were assigned to compile information from sources like Disability Rights Washington and the League of Women Voters. The meeting also covered developing a training schedule for effective communication and engagement at the local level. The Legislative Session starting in January was noted, and the tracking of disability-related legislation was mentioned. The Right to Repair bill was discussed, with a suggestion to include wheelchairs. Finally, a motion was made and passed to change the name from the Legislative Workgroup to the Legislative Subcommittee.

The Legislative Workgroup meeting included updates on the NAUWU bill, which has moved out of the House and is under discussion in the Senate. Members were urged to register support for the bill and provide written testimony, particularly those from rural communities. Civil Survival has joined the NAUWU coalition. The group also discussed Tier 1 legislative priorities for the 2023 session, with members asked to select their top four priorities from a provided spreadsheet. An update was given on accessible currency, noting that future printings of the $10 bill will be tactile.

The meeting included discussions on the upcoming Town Hall and Leadership Action Planning Meeting, focusing on logistics, roles, and responsibilities. Key topics included confirming the number of attendees, coordinating transportation, and ensuring all necessary materials and support are in place. The committee also addressed the need for a short debriefing after the Leadership Action Planning Meeting and scheduled a final wrap-up meeting to review the events and plan for future actions.

The meeting addressed the decline in volunteerism, the effectiveness of current activities, and potential reorganization. Discussions included the need for functional teams, improved communication strategies, and empowerment of people with disabilities. The committee explored conducting a needs assessment, partnering with other agencies, and focusing on employment-related issues such as advocacy, accommodations, and employer awareness. The possibility of hybrid meetings and a review of the committee's logo were also discussed, with a focus on ensuring accessibility and relevance to the community's needs.

The IT Strategic Plan for Employment Security Department is focused on better government through technology and personalized, optimized government services. The plan includes a statewide IT strategy with principles of leadership, enterprise focus, agility, transparency, and data-driven decision-making. It also outlines an agency IT strategy to create the nation's best and most future-ready workforce, promoting economic resilience and prosperity through inclusive workforce solutions. Key goals include efficient and effective government, accountable IT management, IT workforce development, enterprise cloud computing, and security and privacy.