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: Legislature adjourns after approving 2025-27 operating, capital, and transportation budgets
April 28, 2025
The 2025 legislative session adjourned on time yesterday following the passage of the state’s 2025-27 operating, capital, and transportation budgets. Washington state operates on a two-year budget cycle, with the biennial budgets adopted during long 105-day sessions held in odd-numbered years. This year, the state faced a significant operating budget deficit due to lower-than-expected tax…
Session news: UW President Cauce advocates for the UW as state budget negotiations continue
April 18, 2025
UW President Cauce & Sen. Vandana Slatter Last week, UW President Ana Mari Cauce traveled to Olympia to advocate on behalf of the University as the House and Senate continue to negotiate the state’s 2025-27 operating, capital, and transportation budgets. With the state facing a significant shortfall in the operating budget, both chambers have proposed…
Session news: Gov. Ferguson responds to the House & Senate operating budget proposals
April 2, 2025
At a press conference yesterday, Gov. Bob Ferguson responded to the recently released operating budget proposals from both the House and Senate. He stated from the outset that neither proposal is one he could sign, citing an overreliance on new taxes—particularly a proposed wealth tax. While the proposals include several new revenue streams aimed to…