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Bill

SB 5566

Establishing the student basic needs at public postsecondary institutions act.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Hasegawa and 11 co-sponsors

Washington bill requires public colleges to establish student basic needs programs addressing food/housing insecurity and track outcomes through institutional assessments and support services.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · SB 5566

Legislative bill overview

SB 5566 establishes requirements for Washington's public postsecondary institutions to address student basic needs—including food insecurity, housing instability, and other essential supports. The bill mandates colleges and universities create programs, conduct assessments, and allocate resources to help students access necessities that affect academic success.

Why is this important

Research demonstrates that students experiencing food or housing insecurity have lower graduation rates and academic performance. By formalizing institutional accountability for basic needs support, the bill aims to reduce barriers to degree completion and improve educational outcomes, particularly for low-income students who may otherwise leave school due to unmet essential needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and costs: The bill requires institutional spending on basic needs programs without specifying dedicated state funding, potentially forcing colleges to reallocate existing budgets or raise tuition/fees
  • Implementation burden: Small or under-resourced institutions may struggle with assessment requirements and program development compared to larger universities
  • Scope definition: "Basic needs" could be interpreted broadly, creating uncertainty about what services institutions must provide and at what level of support

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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