This bill calls on Governor Bob Ferguson to opt Washington state into the federal tax-credit scholarship program established by Public Law 119-21, which provides educational assistance to K-12 students from working class and middle class families. The program allows individual taxpayers to direct up to $1,700 in federal tax credits annually toward educational expenses, potentially generating approximately $732 million in annual donations to scholarship granting organizations in Washington. The bill emphasizes that participation in this program is voluntary, requires no state expenditure, and would ensure that Washington families can access the same federal educational support available to families in other states.
The resolution outlines several key actions for the governor, including electing participation in the program, identifying qualified scholarship granting organizations, and submitting the required documentation to the IRS by January 1, 2027. It highlights the benefits of opting into the program, such as directing significant federal funding to Washington students without imposing any financial obligations on the state budget. Additionally, it assures that participating organizations will adhere to stringent federal accountability standards, ensuring that funds are used efficiently and effectively for educational support.