This bill establishes a pilot program aimed at advancing funds to public benefit nonprofit corporations that have received grants from the Department of Commerce. The program is designed to enhance local capacity by providing advance funding to eligible grant recipients who demonstrate a need for such funding to fulfill their grant obligations. The Department is required to develop equity-driven procedures for assessing need and eligibility criteria, prioritizing applicants with annual budgets under $5 million. Advance payments are capped at 25% of the grant amount or $200,000, whichever is less, and must be used solely for the purposes outlined in a fully executed contract.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 39.34.150 to authorize the Department of Commerce to advance funds to these nonprofits until June 30, 2029, under an approved contract. The Department is also tasked with submitting a report by September 1, 2028, evaluating the pilot program's outcomes and providing recommendations for its future. The bill includes a provision that ensures if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining sections will still be effective.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 39.34.150