State Government
The Washington State Constitution ratified in 1889 established the plan for the operation of Washington State government, describing the three branches; executive, legislative and judicial, and defining the rights of the people. ‘The executive branch enforces laws. The judicial branch interprets laws. The legislative branch makes new laws and modifies existing laws. The legislature includes elected representatives from the various regions of the city, county or state.’ –quoted from Washington Courts website.
- The Closest Governments to the People – guide to local government
- Special-purpose districts in Washington state
- Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC)
- MRSC publications in pdf
- A Guide to Washington State Courts
- Washington State Association of Counties resource links
Federal Government
The United States Constitution established our current federal system of government. It consists of three branches; the Executive, the Legislative, and the Judicial. Read more about them here.
- How a Bill Becomes Law (Schoolhouse Rock Video)
- How a Bill Becomes Law
Teaching Civics & US Government resources
- The State We’re In – Guide to Washington State, tribal and local government, produced by the League of Women Voters
- Civics Renewal Network
- Crash Course US Government & Politics
Click here for a complete guide to US impeachment process, courtesy of CWU Brooks Library!