Washington State's House Bill 2065 is making waves as it mandates significant staffing cuts across the state's public universities, aiming to streamline operations and reduce costs. Introduced on March 28, 2025, the bill requires Washington State University, Eastern Washington University, Central Washington University, The Evergreen State College, and Western Washington University to collectively eliminate over 1,000 nonfaculty exempt positions, translating to substantial budgetary reductions.

The bill specifies that Washington State University must cut at least 563 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees, while Eastern Washington University is tasked with reducing 128 FTEs. Central Washington University faces a reduction of 206 FTEs, The Evergreen State College must cut 96 FTEs, and Western Washington University is expected to eliminate eight FTEs. These cuts are projected to save the state approximately $11.3 million in general fund appropriations for fiscal year 2026, with anticipated tuition savings of nearly $8 million.

The implications of House Bill 2065 are profound, raising concerns among faculty and staff about job security and the potential impact on student services. Critics argue that such drastic measures could hinder the quality of education and support available to students, while proponents assert that the bill is a necessary step toward fiscal responsibility in the face of budget constraints.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, debates are intensifying over its long-term effects on higher education in Washington. Experts warn that while immediate savings may be realized, the reduction in staff could lead to increased workloads for remaining employees and diminished educational experiences for students. The future of House Bill 2065 remains uncertain, but its potential to reshape the landscape of Washington's public universities is undeniable.