Bill > SB5963

This bill modifies funding for the Passport to Careers program and expands eligibility for the Washington College Grant. Specifically, it directs that funds for the Passport to Careers program be deposited into the state financial aid account, which also holds funds for other statewide student financial aid programs like the Washington College Grant. Crucially, starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, students who are eligible for the Passport to Careers program will automatically qualify as income-eligible for the Washington College Grant, a program designed to increase access to postsecondary education for Washington residents by providing financial aid. The bill also updates the definition of "financial need" for the Passport to Careers program to use the student aid index, a standard measure determined by the U.S. Department of Education.