AN ACT Relating to the use of only letter grades in schools of medicine;
Summary
SB 6251 would require the University of Washington School of Medicine and Washington State University School of Medicine to use only letter grades, or a tiered grading system with at least four designations, for coursework in medical degree and certificate programs. The bill states a legislative finding that medical education should provide objective feedback and that grading systems help encourage preparedness, performance, and better outcomes for future doctors.
In practical terms, the measure would change how the two state medical schools assess students in their curricula. It directs that coursework be evaluated using A through F letter grades or an equivalent tiered system, rather than pass/fail or other non-letter grading approaches, for the covered programs.
Impact
The bill would add a new section to chapter 28B RCW and impose a specific grading requirement on the University of Washington and Washington State University schools of medicine. It would affect medical degree and certificate coursework by limiting grading options and standardizing assessment methods, thereby influencing academic policy, student evaluation, and potentially admissions or progression decisions tied to grades.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text, the sentiment is generally supportive of stricter grading standards in medical education. The legislative findings frame the change as a way to improve objectivity, preparedness, and outcomes, suggesting a belief that letter grades better serve the training of future physicians. No committee testimony or recorded votes were provided, so there is no additional evidence of opposition or broader stakeholder reaction in the available materials.
Contention
The main point of contention implied by the bill is whether medical schools should be required to use letter grades rather than allowing more flexible grading systems such as pass/fail. Supporters appear to favor objective comparison among students and stronger incentives for performance, while potential opponents could argue that medical education benefits from alternative assessment models and that the state should not mandate a single grading structure. Because no committee transcripts or votes are available, specific named opponents or supporters cannot be identified.
AN ACT Relating to reducing prescription drug costs by eliminating barriers impeding access to biosimilar medicines and interchangeable biological products;