The bill amends the Washington national guard postsecondary education grant program by updating definitions and eligibility criteria for participants. Key changes include the inclusion of spouses and dependents of eligible national guard members as potential recipients of the grant, alongside the members themselves. The definition of "eligible student" has been expanded to encompass not only the guard members but also their designated spouses and dependents, provided they meet specific participation requirements. Additionally, the maximum benefit for grant recipients has been clarified to allow for simultaneous use by a guard member and their designated family members, subject to established rules.

The bill also revises the repayment obligations for grant recipients who do not fulfill their service commitments. It specifies that members must serve in the Washington national guard for one year for each year they or their designated family members received the grant, or else they incur a repayment obligation with interest. The office responsible for administering the program is tasked with adopting rules for repayment terms, including interest rates and appeals processes. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance support for national guard members and their families in pursuing postsecondary education while ensuring accountability for service obligations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.103.010, 28B.103.020, 28B.103.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28B.103.010, 28B.103.020, 28B.103.030
Session Law: 28B.103.010, 28B.103.020, 28B.103.030