Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 6562 received a public hearing in the House Higher Education committee after a heated debate in caucus regarding whether or not to enter executive session before the public hearing.

First to testify in support of the bill was the original sponsor, Senator Derek Kilmer, who reiterated the importance of accountability and affordability in tuition policy, and expressed sympathy for students who graduate with high amounts of student debt. He stressed the fact that the bill did not propose unfettered tuition setting authority at the institutions, and that the intent of the bill was to continue a conversation about the future of higher education in the state. He also emphasized the aspect of quality in the conversation, and warned the committee members not to lose the focus on quality of education.

Also testifying in support of the bill were representatives from the business sector, who expressed their concern that degree production continue as outlined in the state’s master plan, and highlighted the role of higher education in aiding economic recovery. The Tacoma Tribune also testified in support, citing the importance of protecting the middle class in the new tuition model. Finally, a representative from the Council of Faculty Representatives conveyed his concerns, which echoed previous concerns of students and faculty regarding access and quality in education.

Testifying in opposition to the bill were several students from the affected institutions, who lobbied to keep tuition-setting authority in the legislature in order to emphasize the body’s responsibility to students and families. The issue of middle class affordability was reiterated, and students argued that while tuition increases may be inevitable, they should also be predictable.

Chair Wallace emphasized that the problem did not lie in tuition but in state allocation, and that the conversation should be anchored in the need of the state to adequately fund educations. With that, the hearing was adjourned without action on the bill.