Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1559

Introduced
1/24/23  
Refer
1/24/23  
Report Pass
2/14/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Report Pass
2/24/23  
Refer
2/24/23  
Engrossed
3/3/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Refer
3/16/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Enrolled
4/22/23  
Chaptered
5/11/23  

Caption

Establishing the student basic needs at public postsecondary institutions act.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1559 would result in significant changes to state laws governing public higher education. The bill mandates institutions to develop and implement strategies to assist students struggling with basic needs, which would likely lead to increased funding and resource allocation in these areas. By formalizing the responsibility of educational institutions to address these issues, HB 1559 seeks to foster a more inclusive educational landscape and improve overall student outcomes in public colleges and universities.

Summary

House Bill 1559, known as the 'Student Basic Needs at Public Postsecondary Institutions Act', is designed to address the fundamental needs of students enrolled in public postsecondary educational institutions. The primary goal of the bill is to ensure that students have access to the necessary resources that can help them succeed academically. Under this legislation, institutions will be required to assess and provide support for basic needs such as food security, housing stability, and mental health resources. This comprehensive approach aims to create an environment where students can focus on their studies without the burden of unmet basic necessities.

Sentiment

The discussion surrounding HB 1559 has been largely positive, with many lawmakers, educators, and student advocates expressing strong support for the bill. Proponents argue that ensuring basic needs are met is critical for academic success and equity in education. However, there are concerns from some members about the feasibility of implementing the required assessments and programs across all public colleges, particularly regarding budget constraints and administrative capabilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1559 center on the resources that institutions will need to allocate to comply with the new requirements. Critics are apprehensive about the potential financial burden on smaller and underfunded institutions, which may struggle to implement the necessary programs without additional state funding. The debate highlights the tension between the ideal of providing comprehensive support to students and the pragmatic challenges of funding and administrative compliance in the education sector.

Companion Bills

WA SB5566

Crossfiled Establishing the student basic needs at public postsecondary institutions act.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5566

Establishing the student basic needs at public postsecondary institutions act.

WA SB5321

Concerning access at public postsecondary educational institutions to medication abortion.

WA HB1677

Concerning access at public postsecondary educational institutions to medication abortion.

WA HB1751

Establishing a sales and use tax exemption for required course materials at public institutions of higher education.

WA LR170

Interim study to assess and examine whether student journalists and student journalism is supported and promoted in public high schools and postsecondary institutions and free from censorship and inappropriate government interference

WA LR333

Interim study to determine whether legislation similar to the model Hunger-Free Campus Bill is needed to address hunger and basic needs insecurity of Nebraska college students

WA SB5781

Establishing a law student rural public defense program.

WA HB2004

Providing early registration at institutions of higher education for military students.

WA SB5607

Requiring free speech information for students at institutions of higher education.

WA SB6103

Concerning free speech information for students at institutions of higher education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.