SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6276
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 22, 2010
Title: An act relating to tuition-setting authority at the University of Washington.
Brief Description: Granting the University of Washington tuition-setting authority.
Sponsors: Senator Jacobsen.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Higher Education & Workforce Development: 1/20/10.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT |
Staff: Alicia Kinne (786-7784)
Background: Prior to fiscal year (FY) 1999, the Legislature set tuition through statute. Since FY 1999 the Legislature has given institutions of higher education limited tuition setting authority by permitting maximum percentage tuition increases annually. In academic years 2009-10 and 2010-11 the Legislature authorized institutions to increase tuition a maximum of 14 percent at four-year institutions of higher education and 7 percent at community and technical colleges. In academic year 2011-12 until academic year 2016-17, tuition and fees may increase no greater than 7 percent over the previous academic year in any institution of higher education.
Summary of Bill: The Board of Regents at the University of Washington (UW) must establish tuition and fee rates for students at the UW.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The UW knows their market best and is better able to determine the appropriate price for higher education. This bill is desirable to maintain a high quality education at the UW.
CON: The students oppose giving tuition setting authority to institutions and minimizing legislative oversight. The governing boards of institutions are made up of unelected officials which does not lead to increased affordability or accountability in tuition setting.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Jacobsen, prime sponsor; Patti McKinnel Davis, WA Biotechnology and Biomedical Assoc.
CON: Marcus Sweetser, Peter Sterr, Jono Hanks, Jamie Marine, Sam Shaddox, Richard Lum, Mike Bogatay, Steve Lindstrom, WA Student Assoc.; David Parsons, Int'l Union, United Auto, Aerospace and Agric. Implement Workers of America- 4121; Spring Atkinson, Sierra Harris, WSU-Vancouver; Thomas Bauer, John Wheeler, Ben Dowling, Alley Malloy, William Diamond, Megan Lewis, UW-Tacoma; Deborah Knutsen, Educ. Dev. Center Snohomish Co.