Creates new limitations related to student protections on interstate agreements between institutions of higher education.
Provides that financial disclosures provided to the Washington Student Achievement Council (Council) by certain institutions are exempt from public disclosure only to the extent that such records are exempt by the federal government and not relied on as part of certain determinations related to specified matters.
Prohibits requirements for surety bonds from being reduced based on whether an institution is headquartered in Washington and requires authorization agreements to provide for at least the same amount and security for surety applicable to Washington institutions.
Expands the types of complaints that may be filed with the Council to include loss or injury due to institutional misrepresentation of educational programs, accreditation, job statistics, or measurements of student debts and earnings.
Prohibits the Council from delegating or deferring investigation and resolution of complaints filed by Washington students to another state.
Removes language providing that participation in State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARAs) does does not delegate authority for compliance with minimum standards or authority to respond to student complaints.
From the Engrossed House Bill Report (EHB 1279), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗