Bill > HB1677

This bill addresses medication abortion access for students at Washington state public higher education institutions by requiring significant changes to student health services. By the 2026-27 academic year, each student health center must offer medication abortion services through either on-site providers, telehealth, or public reproductive health service programs, ensuring privacy and discretion. For institutions without student health centers, the bill mandates that they provide comprehensive referral services, including contact information for at least two qualified healthcare providers, offering private campus spaces for telehealth appointments, technical support, and electronic devices to facilitate access. Additionally, all institutions must develop a comprehensive health services website with clear information about reproductive health services, including detailed appointment scheduling instructions, contact information for pregnancy and behavioral health services, and resources for academic accommodations related to pregnancy or medical treatments. The bill's underlying rationale emphasizes that abortion access is a human right, recognizes substantial barriers students face in obtaining reproductive healthcare, and aims to minimize negative impacts on students' academic, mental, and physical health. The legislation specifically notes that medication abortion is extremely safe and cost-effective, and seeks to make these services as accessible as possible for the approximately 196,000 pregnancy-capable students in Washington's public higher education system.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1677&Year=2025&Initiative=false