Sen. Keith Goehner/R-Dryden/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Sen. Keith Goehner has already added a fourth committee to his list of responsibilities as a state lawmaker: the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC), which conducts research and audits commissioned by the Legislature.

“When the Legislature wants to take a deeper drive on a policy issue or a government function, this committee gets the call. During my two terms in the House I became acquainted with the high-quality work that has come from JLARC and its professional staff, and I look forward to taking a seat at the table as a senator,” said Goehner, R-Dryden.

Goehner is one of three Republican senators on the bipartisan, bicameral committee. His appointment came during the first week of the 2025 legislative session from Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, who also serves as president of the state Senate.

The committee’s findings and recommendations are presented at JLARC meetings and to other legislative committees. JLARC meets every other month on average. Goehner’s first meeting as a member will be Feb. 5.

In January alone, Goehner noted, the committee has published reports on the state’s Developmental Disabilities Administration processes and staffing, its Paid Family and Medical Leave Program, and a performance audit of special education.

“It is a great honor to be appointed to JLARC,” said Goehner, who also is Republican leader on the Senate Housing Committee and assistant Republican leader on the Senate Transportation Committee, in addition to serving on the Senate Local Government, Land Use and Tribal Affairs Committee.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve on a committee that exists to enhance the effectiveness of government. JLARC does great work in providing the Legislature with insights into the value of current programs and with information that can inspire and improve future legislation.”

Visit keithgoehner.src.wastateleg.org for more information about Goehner’s work.