Governor signs data equity bill into law

Gov. Jay Inslee signed Senate Bill 5593 yesterday afternoon, which will help high school students learn more about postsecondary education opportunities. The bill directs the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to establish data sharing agreements with higher education institutions in the state.

Currently, the state’s public colleges and universities can inform students about postsecondary opportunities by utilizing contact information they provide when taking a collegiate entrance exam. Under the new law, OSPI will transfer contact information provided in high school directories directly to institutions of higher education through the data sharing agreements, ensuring all students can be informed about programs and colleges and universities and increasing equity by providing information to those who might have considered postsecondary education attainable or affordable.

Sen. Marko Liias sponsored the bill which was supported by WSU throughout the legislative session.