Located steps from the U.S. Capitol at the Hall of the States, the Office of Federal Relations represents the University of Washington to both the legislative and executive branches of the federal government, participating on behalf of UW in a variety of national forums and advocating for UW priorities. The office also serves as a portal for the federal government and national organizations to the UW and as an access point for UW leadership and staff to our nation’s capital. Through regular reports and visits with campus personnel, Federal Relations staff provide timely information about national trends, opportunities and policy developments.

LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES

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  Congress Finally Passes Debt Ceiling Bill, Narrowly Avoiding Default

  June 5, 2023

  Last week, the debt ceiling bill was passed by both the House and the Senate and signed by President Biden on Saturday lifting the debt ceiling until January 2025, narrowly missing the deadline for default on the country’s debt. The agreement caps non-defense spending at FY23 levels and allows for only a 1% increase in…

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  What Will They Come Up With Next?

  June 2, 2023

  After turning back approximately a dozen amendments during the floor debate last night, the Senate adopted by a 63 to 36 vote the debt limit bill, clearing it for the President's signature later today.  The Treasury Department had been warning that the nation would lose its ability to pay all of its bills next Monday. …

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  Almost There...

  June 1, 2023

  After much back-and-forth and a final round of negotiations last weekend, the White House and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) came to an agreement on a debt ceiling package earlier this week.   Yesterday evening, the House passed the legislation in a bipartisan manner, by a vote of 314 - 117.  The Senate must now take…

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