The Office of State Relations serves as the principal liaison between the University of Washington and state government. Through strong relationships with state elected officials, their offices, and state agencies, we work to advance the University’s mission and legislative priorities. We collaborate closely with the UW community, the state’s five other public baccalaureate institutions, community and technical colleges, and industry partners to identify shared interests and influence public policy. Additionally, we help ensure compliance with state advocacy laws.
Legislative Agendas & Outcomes
State support is essential to University operations and our pursuit of providing an excellent and accessible education for Washingtonians, improving the health and sustainability of our state, and promoting a prosperous economy.
What is Lobbying?
UW employees must coordinate advocacy with the Office of State Relations to ensure clear and consistent communication and compliance with state laws. Learn more about the state’s lobbying laws and the UW’s related rules.
Resources & Partners
Discover more about the Washington’s legislative process, including how a bill becomes a law, and explore the many internal and external organizations the Office of State Relations partners with.
Latest News and Updates
Session news: Regent Rustan testifies in the Senate; First major session deadline fast approaching
February 18, 2025
The 2025 legislative session is already a third of the way through, with day 37 in progress. The session is scheduled to last 105-days and end on April 27. This Friday, Feb. 21, marks the first major deadline of the session: the house-of-origin policy committee cutoff. Bills are first introduced in the appropriate policy committee…
Session news: UW seeks state support to boost STEM degree production
February 7, 2025
It's day 26 of the 105-day legislative session. David Schumacher moves forward in Senate confirmation process for UW Board of Regents David Schumacher was appointed by former Governor Jay Inslee to serve on the UW Board of Regents. His appointment is now subject to confirmation by the state Senate. As the first step in the…
Session news: UW Regents advocate for higher education during Olympia lobby day
January 31, 2025
It's day 19 of the 2025 legislative session, which is scheduled to end on April 27. UW seeks state support for foundational decarbonization projects on the Seattle campus David Woodson, Executive Director of UW Campus Energy, Utilities & Operations, met with legislators on Tuesday to advocate for funding to support decarbonization projects on the UW…