The Secretary of State, a constitutionally established office, is the chief election officer of the state and is responsible for the administration and enforcement of election laws. The Office is also responsible for the administration and enforcement of laws pertaining to filing documents associated with corporations, limited partnerships, and perfecting security agreements. In addition, the Office is responsible for the appointment of notaries public, enforcement of notary laws, and preservation of documents and records having historical significance. All documents filed are a matter of public record and of historical importance. They are available through prescribed procedures for public review and to certify authenticity.

The executive staff determines policy associated with the administration of the office through the programs of Elections, Political Reform, Business Programs, Archives, Information Technology and Management Services Division.