OLYMPIA – Today, Gov. Ferguson signed House Bill 1486 into law, giving Washington’s community and technical college students a long-overdue voice in decisions that directly impact their education. Sponsored by Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-Redmond), the bill adds a student voting member to the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC).
“Over 250,000 students rely on our community and technical colleges—and they deserve a seat at the table,” said Rep. Salahuddin. “When students are part of the conversation, policies are smarter, more equitable, and more effective.”
While student representation has existed for decades on four-year university boards, CTC students have historically been excluded from decision-making.
HB 1486 ensures those students are heard. It’s a meaningful step toward student-centered governance that reflects the real needs, challenges, and lived experiences of Washington’s college community.
The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session.