Expanding the higher education system upon proven demand.
Summary
Endorses the System Design Plan approved by the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB).
Defines "major expansion" and "mission change" and requires the HECB to evaluate proposed major expansions or mission changes and present recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature.
Requires the HECB to consider, in the needs assessment process, recommendations from the Technology Transformation Task Force and institutions of higher education regarding the strategic and operational use of technology.
Removes applied baccalaureate degrees from pilot status and removes statutory limitations on the number of such programs of study that may be offered.
Makes changes to the Washington Fund for Innovation and Quality: (1) making the HECB the lead entity; (2) eliminating the two-year time limit on grants; (3) providing additional direction with respect to grants for improving the use of technology; and (4) allowing grants to be awarded to private nonprofit institutions of higher education, in addition to public institutions and consortia of institutions, to encourage programs designed to address specific system problems.
Authorizes the University of Washington to establish an alternative special public works roster process for awarding contracts for construction and renovation of university buildings in which critical patient care or highly specialized medical research is located.
From the Substitute House Bill Report (SSB 6355), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗