OLYMPIA — As part of his plan to methodically reopen the state, Gov. Jay Inslee announced Tuesday the formation of three Safe Start advisory groups to focus on health systems and public heath, social supports, and economic readiness. The move was quickly criticized by a state Republican Party leader.

The group members — composed of community leaders in labor, business, government and nonprofit organizations — range from Anacortes to Colville; however, none of them are from communities in Grant or Adams county.

“These groups include a diverse group of voices, from community leaders in labor, business, government and nonprofit organizations,” Inslee said during the press conference. “They represent a broad cross-section of Washingtonians from east and west of the Cascades, different generations and a focus on different impacts from the pandemic on our state.”

The advisory groups are to serve as a forum for communities to consult with the governor’s office and state agencies on what comes next with the reopening of the state, and they will also inform decision-making. Inslee added that the advisory groups are not a substitute for involvement from the state legislature.

Despite this assurance, the announcement was met with derision from Washington Republican Party Chairman Caleb Heimlich.

“Governor Inslee continues to show a lack of leadership,” Heimlich said in a press release Tuesday. “Today’s press conference shows he has no interest in seeking input from those with opposing views. He is blatantly ignoring the state Legislature in favor of appointed advisory groups filled with his far-left supporters.”

The Public Health and Health Care System Community Leaders Group is tasked with broadening testing efforts, preparing for a second wave of the novel coronavirus, and preparing for treatment and vaccine distribution. The group will be led by Swinomish Tribal Leader Brian Cladoosby, of Anacortes.

The Safe Work and Economic Recovery Community Leaders Group is asked to advise on recovery plans, guidance for maintaining health standards during reopening and assisting the state’s workforce. The leader of that group is Civic Ventures Senior Vice President Jessyn Farrell, of Seattle.

The third is the Social Supports Community Leaders Group, which is supposed to offer perspectives on the increasing need for social services in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, including food security and safe shelter and housing. Campion Advocacy Fund President Sonya Campion, of Seattle, is the group leader.

The groups are part of the recovery plan, Inslee stated, but the Washington State Republican Party said the advisory groups are another barrier to safely reopening Washington.

“Washingtonians responded admirably and sheltered in place for the last six weeks to keep our communities safe,” Heimlich said in a press release. “Now, the science shows we can responsibly get back to work and it’s time for Governor Inslee to do what is right and safely reopen Washington.”