First-term legislator Cyrus Habib, who was sworn in Monday with other House members, will help direct state efforts to boost prosperity in the 21st century as vice chair of the House Technology and Economic Development Committee.

“We must encourage and incentivize economic development in the 48th District and throughout the state,” Habib said. “We need to develop a talented and skilled workforce, top-flight infrastructure and a supportive business environment. I will draw on my experience with high-tech businesses to make that happen.”

Habib practices law at Perkins Coie in Seattle, where he specializes in meeting the legal challenges of emerging technology companies.

With his swearing-in, Habib, D-Kirkland, becomes the first Iranian-American state legislator in the nation. Habib, who lost his eyesight to childhood cancer, also is one of two blind state legislators in the United States.