The bill amends RCW 28B.10.660 to expand the insurance options available to students and employees at Washington's institutions of higher education. It allows governing boards to provide various types of insurance, including liability, life, health, and disability insurance, with the cost typically borne by the regents, trustees, or students, except in specific cases outlined in the bill. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision that permits public four-year institutions to offer and cover the costs of insurance specifically for intercollegiate student athletes, including current students and certain former athletes entitled to post-eligibility health care for athletics-related injuries.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions that allow for health benefits for graduate students with service appointments and mandates insurance for students participating in studies or research abroad. The governing boards can also cover the costs of this insurance, ensuring that students are not required to purchase additional coverage if they already have adequate insurance. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the support and protection available to student athletes and other students engaged in university-sponsored activities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.10.660