The Washington Dream Act Service Incentive Program is established to provide grants to eligible students for community or volunteer service, as outlined in the newly created sections of Title 28B RCW. The program aims to support students who demonstrate financial need and are engaged in service activities that do not exceed 19 hours per week. Eligible students must be residents, have completed the Washington application for state financial aid, and must not qualify for federally funded financial aid due to their immigration status. The program will begin awarding grants starting in the 2025-26 academic year, with grant amounts determined based on the number of service hours performed and the adjusted minimum wage.
The act also specifies the types of organizations that can participate in the program, which include governmental entities, institutions of higher education, and certain nonprofit and for-profit organizations. However, organizations that involve students in religious or political activities are excluded. The Office of Student Financial Assistance will oversee the program, including the verification of service hours and the disbursement of grants. Additionally, the act stipulates that if specific funding for the program is not provided by June 30, 2025, the act will become null and void.