EFFECT:

Eliminates the provision allowing the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) to recognize accrediting agencies independently from recognition or approval by other entities, including the United States Department of Education.

Eliminates the prohibition that the WSAC may not recognize an accrediting agency solely based upon reciprocity agreements between states that do not hold minimum recognition standards similar to those outlined in the bill, including maintaining rigorous standards for institutional eligibility, institutional effectiveness, student learning, assessment, governance, academic independence, administrative and fiscal responsibility, and transparency.