Bill > HB1278

This bill aims to enhance student participation in the governance of higher education institutions by mandating student representation on governing boards. Specifically, the bill requires each community college district to add a sixth trustee who is a student, to be selected by the governor from a list of candidates submitted by the associated student governments. This student trustee will serve a one-year term, must be a full-time student in good standing, and will have voting rights, with the exception of matters related to faculty hiring, discipline, tenure, and collective bargaining agreements. The bill emphasizes that student perspectives are valuable because students are directly experiencing campus life and can provide unique insights into institutional operations that may not be captured in reports or statistics. Additionally, the bill requires student government representatives to be given an opportunity to provide an in-person report at each regular board meeting across various types of higher education institutions, including community colleges, regional universities, and research universities. The legislature believes this approach will foster a more dynamic relationship between students and institutions, develop student leadership skills, and provide a more comprehensive view of campus needs and experiences.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1278&Year=2025&Initiative=false