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Governor Gregoire Signs University Expansion Bill

For Immediate Release: March 22, 2006

WSU Tri-Cities will develop plan to grow into a four-year institution


TRI-CITIES � Governor Chris Gregoire today at the Washington State University Tri-Cities campus signed into law a bill to expand WSU Tri-Cities into a four-year institution (HB 2867).

�This is about economic development right here in the Tri-Cities. It will help to link college students and our scientific community to create a critical mass for jobs, cutting-edge research, and new commerce,� said Governor Gregoire. �By adding new programs and admitting freshmen and sophomores, WSU Tri-Cities will develop into a thriving four-year institution.�

The bill directs WSU Tri-Cities to conduct a study, including examining resources available at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. A plan will be developed regarding areas of need in higher education in southeastern Washington and how WSU Tri-Cities may best develop into a four-year institution. The plan must be submitted to the Legislature by November 30 of this year.

Beginning in the fall of 2007, WSU Tri-Cities may admit lower-division students directly into programs, beyond the biotechnology field, that have been identified in the campus' plan as being in high demand.

For information on all bill action, please visit Governor Gregoire's website or the Washington Legislature website.

Legislation signed by Governor Gregoire today in Tri-Cities:

House Bills:

�1384, 2414, 2457, 2867, 2939 and 3316.

Senate Bills:

�6151, 6257, 6382, 6581 and 6861.


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