This bill amends existing laws to enhance the support and recognition of students attending approved apprenticeship programs in Washington. It introduces new provisions that define the maximum Washington college grant for students in these programs, aligning it with the grant amount for students attending two-year institutions of higher education. The bill specifies that the grant cannot include tuition and fees for students who are already covered by their apprenticeship programs or other funding methods. Additionally, it mandates that institutions of higher education establish policies to grant credits for related supplemental instruction in active state apprenticeship programs, ensuring that these credits count towards degrees by July 1, 2026.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new section requiring the student achievement council to adopt statewide transfer and articulation policies to facilitate the efficient transfer of credits for students in approved apprenticeship programs. These policies are to be developed in collaboration with public two and four-year institutions and the state board for community and technical colleges, addressing various aspects such as course equivalency and articulation agreements. The aim is to create a cohesive framework that supports the educational pathways of students in apprenticeship programs, ensuring they receive appropriate recognition for their learning and training.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.92.030, 28B.124.030