Opinion:

Today, Governor Gregoire announced several government reform measures, including eliminating 17 advisory boards & commissions and proposals to eliminate another 78.

“State government can no longer operate in the same manner we’ve come to know,” Gregoire said. “As with private businesses, we must make changes to get the most value for our investments while maintaining the highest level of customer service. The reforms I’m proposing today make needed cuts while ensuring that Washington continues to provide important services required in our new economy."

It appears that most of these are advisory entities created so that relevant consumers or professionals have formal access to guide state programs. 

I understand efficiencies will be created by reassigning select programs. Careful program-agency realignment can result in cost savings and better outcomes for Washingtonians. This kind of functional realignment appears to be the focus of the governor's reform initiative, the biggest of which is creating the Department of Commerce in place of Community, Trade & Economic Development.