Board Evaluates the Impact of Executive Order 14173

The following are highlights from the KCBA Board of Trustees meeting held on February 19, 2025, convened by KCBA President Erin Overbey.

After President Erin Overbey called the meeting to order, the Board approved the meeting minutes from January 22, 2025.

Executive Director Jensen briefed the Trustees regarding a recent meeting she and HJP Interim Managing Director Renee Ballou had with OCLA and King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Shah and Judge Scott, Chief Judge Civil to open the lines of communication regarding court processes related to unlawful detainer cases. She also presented highlights on the search for a new Bar Bulletin Editor, with interviews planned for 3–4 candidates out of 16 applicants; and that registration is now open for the Breakfast With Champions fundraiser on May 6th with guest speaker Steve Pemberton.

Next, NLD Chair Amanda Simantov introduced incoming chair Ray Williams to the Board, and highlighted upcoming events, including a speed networking event, Spring Soiree on March 27th, and their recruitment for Mentor of the Year.

Member Services Director Schuster reported on the membership front including personnel changes, the Lawyer Referral Service overhaul, the ongoing impact of the executive order on programming as it relates to equity and inclusion, the ongoing membership campaign, and plans to explore new advertising strategies to help increase membership numbers.

The Board voted unanimously to approve the proposed bylaw changes regarding expanding the number of membership categories and updating the Leadership Development and Nominations Committee member-approval process.

The Anti-Racism and Equity Committee sought input and guidance from the Board on the impacts of section 4 of Executive Order 14173 (Encouraging the Private Sector to End Illegal DEI Discrimination and Preferences) on KCBA’s LSAT Prep Grant and Minority Law Scholarship Programs. Discussion was had on the overall position of the organization relating to these programs, and the consensus was to stay the course for now and wait for input from the Foundation Board and meetings scheduled with the law school Deans in March and April. Trustees were also asked to review the Bar Bulletin Task Force report and recommendations for discussion at the next Board meeting.

The Board then entered Executive Session to discuss HJP next steps prior to adjourning