The proposed bill establishes the empowerED scholarship program in Washington State, aimed at providing educational choice for foster care students through education savings accounts. It addresses the unique challenges these students face, such as frequent placement changes and trauma, by allowing funds to follow them, ensuring continuity in their education. Parents, foster parents, and caregivers can apply for scholarships to cover various educational expenses, including tuition for private schools and tutoring. The bill also emphasizes non-discrimination against religious institutions in the program's implementation, aligning with recent Supreme Court rulings.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding the management and distribution of funds within the treasurer's trust fund, specifically focusing on the investment income account. It mandates that all investment income be allocated to this account, which will support the empowerED scholarship program. The bill introduces tax credits for contributions to the scholarship program, capping total credits at $300 million per year, and outlines a process for taxpayers to apply. It also emphasizes the importance of timely best interest determinations for students in dependency proceedings, ensuring they remain enrolled in their school of origin whenever practical, and includes provisions for transportation responsibilities between school districts when a student's care placement changes.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 28A.225.350