FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 9, 2023
OLYMPIA – Sen. Marko Liias’ (D-Everett) legislation to streamline the process of student data transfer to higher education institutions was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee on Tuesday.
Senate Bill 5593 is intended to make higher education opportunities more accessible to students across Washington. There are roughly 75,000 high school seniors in Washington each year, but universities can only contact the 30,000 who take pre-college placement tests.
This legislation will reduce that equity gap by providing four-year universities, community colleges and technical colleges with the contact information of all graduating high school seniors at no cost. Previously, this information was available for a fee.
“We want all students to know about the opportunities that are available to them. This legislation will break down barriers, promote equity, and support students so they can learn about the accessible and affordable programs that will set them on paths to future success,” Liias said.
“Eastern Washington University is very appreciative of Senator Liias’ work on this transformative bill,” EWU President Shari McMahan said. “This bill addresses important equity and access issues, especially for underrepresented students who will now have more resources to learn about their postsecondary educational opportunities.”
SB 5593 goes into effect on July 23.
