This bill aims to address secondary traumatic stress within the higher education workforce in Washington State by mandating the development and implementation of model policies and procedures by the college board and regional universities. Specifically, it requires the college board to create a model policy that includes commitments to mental health support, a positive workplace climate, the establishment of a mental health committee, regular assessments of policy implementation, and the provision of resources and training. These policies must be publicly posted by September 1, 2025, and each district and regional university is required to adopt or amend their policies to align with the model by the start of the 2025-26 academic year.
Additionally, the bill mandates that both the college board and regional universities publish links to resources, self-assessments, and best practices on their websites to help faculty, staff, and trustees address secondary traumatic stress. Collaboration with the public employees' benefits board and the council of presidents is also emphasized to ensure effective implementation of these initiatives.