WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Bi-partisan bill to set new direction for higher education passes House

Olympia – Responding to years of concern by the Washington business community, the House passed a bill that would completely overhaul the management of the state’s higher education system of six public universities and 34 community and technical colleges.

House Bill 2483 creates a ten-member “Student Achievement Council” that will design and implement a ten-year roadmap for the state’s higher education system. Five governor-appointed citizen members, including one student member, will serve on the Council along with members from the higher education institutions, workforce training, and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

“Although we have the most productive university system in America, we have to do more,” said Rep. Larry Seaquist (D-Gig Harbor), chair of the House Higher Education committee. “Thousands of our citizens need a degree or a certificate to get a better job or start a new career.  Today we have taken a major step toward making sure all our citizens can get the education they need.”

Seaquist was pleased the legislation was crafted in a bi-partisan fashion.

“This is bipartisan leadership at its best,” said Seaquist. “Working closely with the governor, I found broad agreement with our university leaders, our students, and our faculty.”

HB 2483 will be sent to the Senate for consideration.