The bill amends RCW 28B.92.205 to expand financial aid eligibility for the Washington college grant program. It introduces new criteria for determining financial need, allowing students with family incomes between zero and 70 percent of the state median family income to receive the maximum grant. Additionally, it establishes a prorated grant system for students with incomes between 71 and 100 percent of the state median family income, with specific percentages allocated based on income brackets. The previous income thresholds and proration percentages have been deleted and replaced with updated figures to reflect these changes.

Furthermore, the bill adds a new section to chapter 28B.92 RCW, which introduces an annual bridge grant of $500 for Washington college grant recipients who qualify for the maximum grant but are not part of the college bound scholarship program. This bridge grant is intended to provide supplementary financial support for various higher education expenses beyond tuition and fees. The bill outlines eligibility requirements for the bridge grant, including enrollment status and the application of the grant to a student's financial aid package. The office will begin awarding these bridge grants starting in the 2024-25 academic year.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.92.205