This bill amends RCW 28B.77.850 to expand the eligibility of the students experiencing homelessness and foster youth program to include accredited tribal colleges in Washington. The new provisions allow both public four-year institutions of higher education and public tribal colleges to implement programs that provide various forms of assistance to students experiencing homelessness and those who were in the foster care system when they graduated high school. The assistance may include access to laundry facilities, storage, meal plans, technology, short-term housing, and case management services.

Additionally, the bill mandates that participating institutions leverage existing community resources to support these students and requires them to submit an annual joint report to the legislature detailing the number of students served, the assistance provided, and recommendations for improving services. The report will begin on December 1, 2023, and will include data on students experiencing homelessness or food insecurity attending both four-year institutions and tribal colleges.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.77.850