When the Legislature convenes every January, the Capitol campus is busy with lawmakers, lobbyists, legislative staff and students participating in the legislative page programs.

Rep. Drew Stokesbary, R-Auburn, is encouraging students interested in the House Page Program to submit applications soon.

“Civic education is an important part of our state’s curriculum. The page program is an excellent way for students from around the state to learn how our state government operates,” Stokesbary said. “Pages have been serving in the Legislature since 1891. It is a fantastic program with a strong history.”

Pages deliver documents and messages to legislators and staff. During debate in the House of Representatives chamber, they distribute amendments, bills and other paperwork for legislators. They also perform ceremonial tasks, such as presenting the flags.

To become a page, applicants must have a legislative sponsor, be between the ages of 14 and 16, and obtain written permission from their parents and school. Pages earn $35 per day while serving in the program.

“If you talk with students who have paged in the past, they will tell you it was a great experience. Not only do you learn more about how our state Capitol functions, but you build long-lasting friendships with other students across the state. It is a great experience,” Stokesbary said.

Parents and students interested in the page program can find more information at: leg.wa.gov/House/Pages/HousePageProgram.aspx. A page application can be found at: app.leg.wa.gov/PageApplication/

Anyone with questions can contact Rep. Stokesbary’s office at 360-786-7846 or drew.stokesbary@leg.wa.gov.