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Washington State Interagency Continuity Committee

Purpose

The Interagency Continuity Committee is a standing body of continuity and disaster recovery professionals established to strengthen coordination and ensure comprehensive, effective continuity activities across all state agencies. The committee also serves in an advisory capacity to The Adjutant General (TAG). In this role, the TAG—serving as committee chair—provides counsel to the Office of the Governor on matters related to statewide government continuity.

If you are a state agency and would like access to the meeting minutes, continuity resources and tools, check here.

Establishment and Authority

Established on Oct. 15, 2012, through Governor’s Directive 12-20, Continuity of Government Operations Preparation, the Interagency Continuity Committee created the foundational policy framework for continuity activities within Washington State government. Directive 12-20 formally established an interagency committee to coordinate and guide continuity of operations efforts across state agencies.

More recently, Governor’s Directive 25-19 reaffirmed the state’s commitment to continuity and encouraged broad participation in the Committee. This includes all Washington state government agencies, agencies led by separately elected officials or independent governing bodies, institutions of higher education and the legislative and judicial branches.

In 2015, House Bill 1047 further strengthened this framework by modifying RCW 38.52.030 to place the Committee’s duties into law. Under this statute, the Committee is responsible for providing leadership and guidance for interagency coordination, prioritizing continuity of operations planning across state agencies, and promoting adherence to federal, state and industry standards.

Goals & Objectives

The Interagency Continuity Committee will assist state agencies in sustaining essential functions and services by:

  • Promoting continuity best practices and shared expertise.
  • Guiding agencies in meeting state, federal and industry standards.
  • Recommending statewide procedures, standards and tools.
  • Monitoring and reporting on agency continuity activities.
  • Identifying and prioritizing needed policies and initiatives.
  • Documenting essential state functions and supporting IT needs.
  • Strengthening interagency coordination and shared understanding.
  • Aligning statewide plans with FEMA, NIMS, ICS and HSEEP standards.
  • Coordinating with the Emergency Management Council and other committees.

Point of Contact

Annie Merritt, Continuity Program Manager
(253) 512-7118
(253) 405-7119 (Cell)
Annie.merritt@mil.wa.gov