The bill aims to enhance consumer protections for students in Washington's postsecondary education system by amending existing regulations and introducing new provisions. Key amendments include the requirement for degree-granting institutions to be accredited or to have applied for accreditation, with specific exemptions that do not compromise student consumer protections or the council's authority to investigate. The bill also emphasizes the council's responsibility to maintain and develop interstate reciprocity agreements while ensuring that such agreements do not diminish student protections or the council's investigative capabilities. Additionally, it mandates that institutions disclose information regarding their compliance with financial aid eligibility and accreditation requirements.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements for institutions offering online distance learning and private institutions with physical campuses in Washington to disclose students' rights and complaint procedures prominently. It reinforces the council's authority to deny, revoke, or suspend institutional authorizations for violations and prohibits the delegation of oversight responsibilities to other states. A new section allows the council to waive state requirements for institutions involved in interstate agreements, provided these waivers align with federal regulations and protect Washington resident students. Overall, the bill strengthens the regulatory framework governing postsecondary education institutions to better safeguard student interests.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.85.020, 28B.85.070, 28B.85.090, 28B.85.095