This bill aims to enhance the appointment process for presidents of public institutions of higher education in Washington State by emphasizing the importance of academic partnership among faculty, staff, and students. It introduces a new section that recognizes the public interest in the hiring of university presidents and mandates full participation from faculty and staff regents and trustees in the selection process. The bill amends several existing laws (RCW 28B.20.100, 28B.30.100, 28B.35.100, 28B.40.100, and 28B.50.102) to reflect these changes.

Key amendments include provisions that allow student and faculty members on the boards of regents and trustees to participate in the hiring of university presidents, while excluding them from voting on matters related to the hiring, discipline, or tenure of specific faculty members, except for the initial selection and hiring of the university president. The bill also establishes that the governor will appoint members to these boards with the consent of the senate, ensuring a structured governance framework. Additionally, the bill declares an emergency, indicating its immediate necessity for the preservation of public peace, health, or safety.

Statutes affected:
Substitute Bill: 28B.20.100, 28B.30.100, 28B.35.100, 28B.40.100, 28B.50.102