Tenth District Rep. Dave Hayes, R-Camano Island, was elected by his colleagues Monday to serve as whip for the House Republican Caucus in the Washington State Legislature.

As the whip, Hayes is responsible for ensuring members of the caucus are in attendance and voting when legislation makes its way to the floor of the state House of Representatives.

“I am honored to be chosen by my peers for this leadership position. We have many important votes to take in the coming session,” Hayes said. “It will be critical that members are on the floor and prepared when it comes time to vote.”

“This will also put me in a position to provide a stronger voice at the leadership table for the citizens I represent in the 10th Legislative District as we tackle major issues such as education funding, the state budget, public safety, transportation and more,” he said.

Hayes previously served as assistant whip. He is also the assistant ranking Republican on the House Public Safety Committee.

Hayes begins serving a third term in the Legislature when the 2016 session convenes on Jan. 9.