Senate Bill 5158, which would allow governing boards of public four‑year institutions to make available and pay the cost of insurance for intercollegiate student athletes, was briefed and supported by witnesses from the University of Washington and Washington State University.

Ben Omdahl, staff counsel, briefed the bill and described current state law allowing governing boards to make available certain insurance types to students and trustees, and noted a 2024 NCAA policy requiring member institutions to provide medical care covering out‑of‑pocket medical expenses for athletically related injuries for at least two years after graduation or separation. Under SB 5158, a public institution’s governing board may purchase and bear the cost of insurance for enrolled student athletes and may cover, as permitted, former student athletes entitled to post‑eligibility health care related to athletics injuries.

Joe Dacco, representing the University of Washington, said about 35 percent of UW student athletes arrive uninsured or underinsured and that the university is already responsible for out‑of‑pocket medical bills when an uninsured athlete is injured. The university brief said the bill removes a current prohibition on paying insurance premiums and would allow the institution to stabilize costs and ensure coverage.

Chris Muelich, representing Washington State University, said WSU spends roughly $1.5 million a year on medical expenses for student athletes and that purchased insurance could reduce cost volatility and help the institutions continue to provide athlete care. Testimony noted the bill contains no immediate direct fiscal impact to the state; the fiscal note described potential institutional savings depending on premiums and plan choices.

Committee members asked whether this is a new problem; witnesses said increased NCAA requirements and changes in insurance markets have made the current approach more costly and more uncertain. No formal committee action was taken at the hearing.