On February 24, 2025, Washington State introduced Senate Bill 5355, a legislative measure aimed at enhancing the Title IX process in higher education institutions. The bill seeks to address the timely handling of Title IX violations, improve communication with students, and bolster support resources for survivors of sexual assault and harassment.

The key provisions of Senate Bill 5355 include a mandate that sanctions related to Title IX violations must be initiated within ten business days of a final decision, barring any extenuating circumstances. If the process extends beyond 180 business days, institutions are required to provide written explanations to affected students, detailing the reasons for the delay and an expected completion timeline. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of keeping students informed throughout the investigation and hearing processes.

Beginning in the 2028-29 academic year, the bill mandates that institutions serving 8,000 or more students must offer an online reporting option for Title IX violations. Additionally, these institutions are encouraged to implement an online tracking tool, allowing students to monitor the progress of their reports.

Another significant aspect of the bill is the requirement for higher education institutions to include contact information for suicide prevention and sexual assault support services on student and staff identification cards. This provision aims to ensure that individuals have immediate access to critical resources.

The introduction of Senate Bill 5355 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the bill is a crucial step toward creating safer campus environments and ensuring that students feel supported during the Title IX process. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing these requirements within existing institutional resources.

The implications of this bill are substantial, as it not only seeks to improve the handling of Title IX cases but also aims to foster a culture of transparency and support within educational institutions. As the legislative process unfolds, the bill's potential impact on student safety and institutional accountability will be closely monitored by stakeholders across Washington State.