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
UW submits 2026 supplemental operating and capital budget requests to the state
September 22, 2025
Last week, UW submitted its 2026 operating and capital budget requests—known as "decision packages"— to the Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM). As a public state agency, UW is required by law to submit these requests each September to help inform the state's budget development process. These requests also shape the University's legislative agenda.…
Sen. Shewmake visits Washington Sea Grant in Bellingham
August 13, 2025
Senator Sharon Shewmake recently visited the Washington Sea Grant (WSG) office in Bellingham, which is located in her legislative district, to learn more about WSG’s work in Whatcom County and across Washington state. Housed within the UW’s College of the Environment, WSG proudly serves as a resource on shoreline and coastal issues across the state.…
Rep. Abbarno visits with local students at UW Chehalis STEM camp
August 11, 2025
On August 7, Representative Peter Abbarno visited the STEM Camp the UW hosts annually in partnership with the Chehalis Foundation at W.F. West High School. The camp is open to incoming 9th-12th graders and focuses on exploration in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Throughout the camp, the students engage in collaborative, project-based learning that…