SGA 9219
In CommitteeSenate
WILLIAM S. KEHOE
This status may be delayed. See Action History below for the latest updates.
How does a bill become law?
- Introduced: The bill is filed and assigned a number.
- Committee: A subject-matter committee holds hearings, takes public testimony, and decides whether to advance the bill.
- Floor Vote: The full chamber (House or Senate) debates and votes on the bill.
- Opposite Chamber: The bill repeats the committee and floor vote process in the other chamber.
- Governor: The Governor reviews the bill and decides whether to sign or veto it.
- Signed: The bill has been signed into law.
AI Analysis
This bill formally appoints William S. Kehoe as Director of the Washington Technology Solutions agency, effective January 15, 2025, with the position lasting until the governor decides otherwise. It does not change agency functions or funding, only the leadership appointment.
- Appoints William S. Kehoe as Director of the Washington Technology Solutions agency, effective January 15, 2025.
- Sets the director's term to end at the governor's pleasure, meaning the governor can remove or replace the director at any time.
- Grants the governor authority over the leadership of the state's primary technology services agency.
Who is affected
- Washington Technology Solutions staff and leadership — The Washington Technology Solutions (WTS) agency will be led by a new director appointed by the governor, potentially influencing state IT strategy, procurement, and digital service delivery.
- Other state agencies using WTS services — State agencies that rely on WTS for IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital services may see changes in service priorities or operational standards.
- Washington residents and businesses — Residents and businesses may experience changes in the quality, cost, or accessibility of state digital services (e.g., licensing, benefits portals, tax systems).
Pro/Con Analysis
Potential Benefits (1)
The bill ensures accountability by allowing the governor to appoint and retain leadership of Washington Technology Solutions, aligning agency priorities with the governor’s technology and digital service agenda.
Local GovernmentRef: Section 1
Potential Concerns (1)
This bill centralizes control over the state’s primary IT agency under direct gubernatorial authority, potentially reducing institutional continuity and long-term strategic planning if leadership changes with each governor or administration.
Local GovernmentRef: Section 1
Who Is Most Affected
WTS staff may experience shifts in agency priorities, procurement practices, or leadership expectations depending on the new director’s management style and alignment with existing initiatives.
Other state agencies may benefit from more cohesive IT strategy if the new director effectively coordinates with them—or face disruptions if priorities shift abruptly without consultation.
Residents and businesses could see improved or degraded digital service quality depending on how the new director prioritizes accessibility, modernization, and equity in state platforms.