EHB 1279 — Providing postsecondary education consumer protections.

What this bill does

Creates new limitations related to student protections on interstate agreements between institutions of higher education. Provides that financial disclosures provided to the Washington Student Achievement Council (Council) by certain institutions are exempt from public disclosure only to the extent that such records are exempt by the federal government and not relied on as part of certain determinations related to specified matters. Prohibits requirements for surety bonds from being reduced based on whether an institution is headquartered in Washington and requires authorization agreements to provide for at least the same amount and security for surety applicable to Washington institutions. Expands the types of complaints that may be filed with WSAC to include loss or injury due to institutional misrepresentation of educational programs, accreditation, job statistics, or measurements of student debts and earnings. Prohibits WSAC from delegating or deferring investigation and resolution of complaints filed by Washington students to another state. Removes language providing that participation in interstate reciprocity agreements does not delegate authority for compliance with minimum standards or authority to respond to student complaints. Allows WSAC to waive state requirements for institutions participating in interstate reciprocity agreements for online or distance education provided that the waiver is consistent with federal regulations and requirements and that the authorization to operate in Washington is consistent with the WSAC's policies for protection of Washington resident student consumers.

From the Washington State Legislature's nonpartisan staff bill analysis. Read the full analysis ↗

Floor votes

• House — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · March 7, 2025
  94 yea · 0 nay · 4 not voting
• Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · April 11, 2025
  48 yea · 0 nay · 1 not voting

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Other bills sponsored by Pollet

• SHB 1171 — Exempting attorney higher education employees from certain mandated reporting of child abuse and neglect.
• ESHB 1295 — Using evidence-based instructional practices in reading and writing literacy for public elementary students.
• SHB 1337 — Concerning the appointment of presidents of institutions of higher education.
• SHB 1343 — Limiting the scope of cause for loss of aid.
• ESHB 1572 — Modifying higher education accreditation standards.