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 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 requires students participating in international studies to obtain insurance for emergencies, unless they are already covered. The new language emphasizes the importance of supporting student athletes by ensuring they have access to necessary health care coverage related to their athletic participation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.10.660