Introduction

In 1973, Representative Leonard Sawyer was elected Speaker of the House. He had represented the Puyallup area since 1955 and over his years of service had developed a slate of ideas for improving legislative processes and organization. He was especially keen to strengthen the legislative branch of government to balance the tremendous growth of the executive branch under one of Washington's most activist governors, Dan Evans. As Speaker, Sawyer saw his opportunity to put his ideas into practice. He and his team identified some of the structural weaknesses they perceived in the Legislature and pushed a radical program of reforms to address them.

Scrapbook of Photographs and Documents:

» Photographs
» Team Profiles
» Resolution 88-4773
» Speeches and Correspondence