The bill modifies the eligibility criteria for the Washington college grant by adjusting the income thresholds for students demonstrating financial need. It establishes that students with family incomes between zero and 70 percent of the state median family income will receive the maximum grant, while those with incomes between 71 and 100 percent will have their grants prorated based on specific percentages. The previous income brackets have been updated, with the maximum grant now available to a broader range of low-income students, and the proration percentages adjusted to reflect new income ranges.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that provides 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 help cover additional educational expenses beyond tuition and fees, such as books and transportation. The bridge grants will be awarded starting in the 2025-26 academic year, and students must be enrolled at least half-time to receive the full amount, with prorated grants available for those enrolled less than half-time.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.92.205