Washington State Gender Equity Regulations

Washington State’s Gender Equity Statute [RCW 28B.110] prohibits “discrimination on the basis of gender against any student in institutions of higher education in Washington.” The law forbids discrimination in student assistance and services in academic programs, and in athletics, both intercollegiate and intramural.

In 1990, the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) delegated to the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) responsibility for collecting data and gender equity updates from the state’s community and technical colleges, and, in turn, reporting these to the HECB. At this point the SBCTC provides the necessary reports required by this legislation.

Intercollegiate athletic programs at the state's two-year colleges must comply with the requirement of the gender equity statute.

RCW 28B.110 also focuses on recreational activities, including intramural athletics and club sports, mandating that they be “offered to meet the interests of students,” and facilities and services must be provided for recreational sports without disparities based on gender.