Bill > HB1166

This bill establishes the Providing Effective Education for Reentry Success Act, which aims to improve educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals by implementing several key provisions. The legislation requires the Department of Corrections to permit incarcerated individuals to purchase and retain laptop computers with WiFi capability and associated accessories, and to install broadband infrastructure in correctional facilities to support online learning. The bill emphasizes digital equity and inclusion, allowing incarcerated individuals to engage in various online educational activities such as enrolling in degree programs, accessing scholarly resources, taking online tests, and applying for financial aid. The department must collaborate with educational institutions and nonprofits to expand postsecondary education programs, ensuring that no more than 67% of program seats are reserved for prioritized individuals. Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws to support these educational initiatives, including provisions for financial aid, transcript access, and protection from certain fund deductions when paying for educational expenses. The legislature recognizes that education and digital literacy are crucial for rehabilitation and successful reentry into society, and seeks to create more meaningful educational pathways for incarcerated individuals.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1166&Year=2025&Initiative=false