The Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) is the official, nonpartisan youth advisory body to the Washington State Legislature. Designed for students aged 14–18, LYAC offers a unique platform for young people to actively shape public policy, represent their peers, and drive meaningful change across the state.

With members drawn from diverse geographic, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds, the council ensures that youth voices are heard where it matters most—at the heart of government decision-making.

What Is LYAC and Why It Matters

Established in 2005 by then 12-year-old Alex Jonlin, LYAC stands as proof that young people can influence policy and governance at the highest levels. The council is entirely youth-led and operates with oversight from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Washington State Leadership Board.

As the only legally recognized youth advisory body to the Washington State Legislature, LYAC serves as the official voice of Washington youth in shaping legislation and policy priorities.

What LYAC Members Do

Members of LYAC are deeply involved in civic engagement and policymaking. Through their two-year term, students:

Meet with legislators to advocate for youth-focused policies
Testify before the state legislature in support of or opposition to legislation
Advise government officials, policymakers, and leaders across sectors
Collaborate with nearly 200 community organizations statewide
Host youth engagement events attended by hundreds of students
Work with media outlets such as the Associated Press, Teen Vogue, and KING-5
Partner with agencies like the Attorney General’s Office and Department of Health
Draft and propose real legislation
Ensure youth perspectives are represented in key decisions

From organizing civic workshops to lobbying policymakers, LYAC members play a hands-on role in shaping Washington’s future.

How LYAC Represents Youth Across Washington

LYAC is committed to ensuring it accurately reflects the voices of young people across the state. It achieves this through:

Collaborating with hundreds of youth-serving organizations
Conducting statewide youth surveys to gather diverse perspectives
Hosting events to connect students with policymakers
Ensuring equitable access through inclusive recruitment and selection

This commitment to representation ensures that policies reflect the real needs and priorities of Washington’s youth.

LYAC’s Impact and Legacy

LYAC’s work has left a lasting mark on civic participation in Washington. Whether hosting large-scale youth events, delivering civic education workshops, or influencing legislation, the council has empowered thousands of young people to engage in governance and advocacy.

The program continues to inspire youth to take leadership roles in their communities and beyond.

Apply for the LYAC 2028 Cohort

Applications are now open for the 2028 LYAC Cohort. Apply HERE

Key Eligibility Requirements

To apply, candidates must:

Be in grades 7–10
Reside in and attend school in Washington State
Obtain parent or guardian consent
Submit a completed application by the deadline
Provide a letter of recommendation (optional but strongly encouraged)

Application Deadline

April 30, 2026, 11:59 PM Pacific Time

Why You Should Apply

Serving on LYAC offers an unparalleled opportunity to:

Influence real legislation
Develop leadership and advocacy skills
Build networks with policymakers and community leaders
Represent youth voices at the state level
Create lasting change in your community

From testifying at the legislature to organizing statewide events, LYAC members are at the forefront of youth civic leadership.

Final Thoughts

The Legislative Youth Advisory Council is more than a program—it’s a movement that puts young people at the center of policymaking in Washington State. If you’re passionate about civic engagement, leadership, and creating meaningful change, LYAC is your opportunity to make an impact.

Apply now and become a voice for youth in government.

Discover more details about these opportunities Here

Apply to the Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC): Washington’s Official Youth Voice in Government

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