The bill amends RCW 28B.118.010 to enhance equity in eligibility for the Washington college bound scholarship program. It clarifies the definition of "eligible students," which includes those who qualify for free or reduced-price lunches, are dependents under chapter 13.34 RCW, or were adopted between the ages of 14 and 18 with a negotiated adoption agreement. The bill also establishes that eligible students will be automatically enrolled in the scholarship program without requiring action from them or their families. Additionally, it mandates that the office of student financial assistance notify eligible students and their guardians about their enrollment and the scholarship requirements.

Key changes in the bill include the insertion of provisions that allow students who graduate from approved private high schools or receive a high school equivalency certificate to qualify for the scholarship. It also specifies that eligible students must maintain a "C" average for direct admission to higher education institutions starting from the 2023-24 academic year. The bill removes previous language that allowed certain students to meet eligibility requirements through a high school equivalency certificate, streamlining the criteria for scholarship eligibility. Overall, the amendments aim to make the scholarship program more accessible and equitable for a broader range of students.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.118.010
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28B.118.010
Session Law: 28B.118.010