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
Governor Ferguson Attends Groundbreaking Ceremony of New UW Seattle Chemical Sciences Building
October 2, 2026
On Wednesday, September 30, Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson joined UW President Robert Jones and the leadership team of the UW College of Arts & Sciences to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new chemical sciences building. This project received $5 million in the state's 2024 supplemental capital budget and $124 million in the 2025-2027 capital…
WA Economic and Revenue Forecast Council Releases Third Revenue Forecast of the Year
September 28, 2026
On Friday, September 25, the Washington State Economic and Revenue Forecast Council released its third revenue forecast for 2026. The forecast shows that tax collections are about $22 million higher for the current biennium, which ends June 30, 2027, compared with the June forecast. However, the increase is seen in the Education Legacy Trust Account…
WA State Legislators Visit UW STEM Summer Camp in Chehalis
August 6, 2026
This week, the University of Washington hosted high school students at W.F. West High School in Chehalis for its annual STEM Summer Camp. This year, students learned from UW experts in the fields of dentistry, nursing, and engineering through hands-on experiences. The four-day STEM Camp helps expose high school students in the region to engineering…