Bill > SB5110

This bill provides an option for community and technical colleges in Washington State to waive tuition and services/activity fees for tribal elders aged 55 and older from tribes recognized under RCW 43.376.010 (which defines officially recognized Native American tribes in the state). The bill adds a new section to the existing state education code (Chapter 28B.15 RCW) that gives these educational institutions the discretion to offer full or partial fee waivers to eligible tribal elders. Additionally, the bill empowers the state board for community and technical colleges to develop and modify rules as needed to implement this tuition waiver program. This legislation aims to increase educational access and opportunities for older Native American community members by reducing financial barriers to attending community and technical colleges.