The bill amends RCW 28B.92.030 to update the definitions and conditions related to the Washington college grant program. Key changes include the specification of maximum grant amounts for various types of institutions, which are now set at fixed dollar amounts for the 2019-20 academic year and will increase annually starting in the 2025-26 academic year based on a tuition growth factor. Institutions must sign an affidavit confirming compliance with nondiscrimination policies to qualify for these adjusted grant amounts. The bill also introduces new sections that outline the requirements for institutions to receive these grants, including prohibitions against discrimination based on various factors and the conditions under which institutions with discriminatory practices may lose eligibility for grant adjustments.

Additionally, the bill establishes that institutions subject to a prefinding settlement or final court order for discriminatory practices will not be eligible for grant adjustments unless they meet specific conditions, such as fulfilling obligations from the court order or taking significant corrective actions. Institutions that do not sign the affidavit or are under legal scrutiny will receive the equivalent of the 2024-25 tuition and fees for grant calculations. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that financial aid is directed towards institutions that adhere to equitable practices while providing clear guidelines for compliance and eligibility.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.92.030