Bill > SB5152

This bill directs the Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP) to conduct a comprehensive study addressing how state employees could gain electronic access to peer-reviewed journals, which are academic, scholarly, or scientific publications that undergo expert review before publication. The legislature recognizes that state agencies currently struggle to access these journals, often requiring employees to purchase individual manuscripts, outsource research, or physically visit university libraries—a process that is time-consuming and inefficient. The study will explore potential funding models, organizational structures, and policy mechanisms for creating a statewide collective journal access system, drawing inspiration from other states that have successfully implemented similar approaches. WSIPP is required to complete the study by December 1, 2026, and submit its findings to the relevant legislative committees, with the study's section set to expire on June 30, 2027. To support this research, the bill appropriates $83,000 from the general fund to The Evergreen State College, which will fund WSIPP's study. The ultimate goal is to determine whether a statewide subscription model for peer-reviewed journals would benefit Washington state employees and potentially reduce research-related expenses.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5152&Year=2025&Initiative=false