The bill aims to increase the annual limit of services and activities fees at institutions of higher education in Washington State, particularly in urban areas where rising costs for essential services are a concern. It emphasizes the need for these fees to help maintain and expand services such as student health, counseling, recreation, and academic support. The legislation allows governing boards to raise the services and activities fees by up to six percent per year, as deemed reasonable by the services and activities fee committee and the governing board, while keeping the approval process for fee increases unchanged.
Additionally, the bill amends RCW 28B.15.069, specifically changing the maximum allowable annual increase in services and activities fees from four percent to six percent. This adjustment is intended to provide institutions with greater flexibility in managing inflationary pressures and ensuring the continued operation of vital student services. The bill also maintains existing provisions regarding the collection of fees and the authority of governing boards to set tuition and fees for various courses.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 28B.15.069