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 all 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: President Cauce champions the UW in Olympia; Gov. Ferguson sworn into office
January 15, 2025
It's day three of the 2025 legislative session, which began Monday and is scheduled to run until April 27. Washington state operates on a two-year budget cycle, and during this session, lawmakers will decide the 2025-27 operating, capital, and transportation budgets. President Cauce champions the UW in Olympia Yesterday, UW President Ana Mari Cauce traveled…
Rep. Dave Paul will now chair the House higher education committee
January 10, 2025
The House Postsecondary Education & Workforce (PEW) Committee has a new chair, Rep. Dave Paul, who takes over following the appointment of former chair, Rep. Vandana Slatter, to the Senate. Slatter’s appointment to the Senate fills the vacancy created by the election of Sen. Patty Kuderer to state insurance commissioner. Rep. Paul assumed office in…
Governor-elect Ferguson releases budget priorities
January 9, 2025
Governor-elect Bob Ferguson, who will be sworn into office on Jan. 15, has unveiled his operating budget priorities for the 2025-27 biennium. While he does not provide a in-depth budget proposal, this release offers an overview of his fiscal approach. Ferguson’s priorities come after outgoing Governor Jay Inslee presented his budget proposals in mid-December. Washington…