Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5513

Introduced
1/23/23  
Refer
1/23/23  
Report Pass
2/1/23  

Caption

Concerning mental health counseling at community and technical colleges.

Impact

If enacted, SB 5513 would likely expand the availability and scope of mental health services provided at community and technical colleges across the state. This could lead to enhanced support systems that not only facilitate better academic performance but also promote overall student well-being. The bill’s provisions may involve increasing funding for mental health resources, integrating counseling services into student services, and establishing protocols to respond to mental health emergencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 5513 focuses on improving mental health counseling services at community and technical colleges. The bill aims to address the growing concerns around student mental health by ensuring that these institutions are equipped to provide appropriate support to their students. This initiative is driven by the recognition of increasing mental health challenges faced by students, particularly in demanding academic environments, and the need for reliable access to counseling services on campus.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 5513 appears to be broadly positive, particularly among advocates for mental health awareness and support within educational settings. Supporters argue that the bill addresses a crucial need in the academic landscape and contributes to fostering a supportive environment for students. However, there may be concerns about the implementation aspects, including funding and resource allocation, which could affect the bill's efficacy in achieving its intended outcomes.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 5513 could center on the adequacy of funding, the effectiveness of proposed measures, and the potential for bureaucratic hurdles in implementing new counseling services. Critics may raise questions about whether the bill sufficiently addresses the diverse needs of students or whether it may inadvertently overlook specific demographic groups requiring specialized mental health support. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, these issues may become focal points of discussion.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5663

Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning entirely online course offerings at community and technical colleges.

WA HB2125

Concerning the eligibility of state-mandated benefits for contingent faculty at community and technical colleges.

WA SB5087

Establishing legal education programs at community and technical colleges.

WA SB5790

Concerning cost-of-living adjustments for community and technical college employees.

WA HB1486

Adding a student member to the state board for community and technical colleges.

WA HB1556

Expanding tuition waivers for high school completers at community and technical colleges.

WA SB5542

Expanding tuition waivers for high school completers at community and technical colleges.

WA HB2063

Adjusting tuition waivers for high school completers at community and technical colleges.

WA SB5110

Providing tuition waivers for tribal elders at Washington’s community and technical colleges.

WA SB5219

Enacting the interstate counseling compact for licensed mental health counselors.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.