Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5828

Introduced
1/12/26  
Refer
1/12/26  
Report Pass
1/22/26  
Refer
1/23/26  
Report Pass
2/9/26  
Engrossed
2/17/26  
Refer
2/19/26  
Report Pass
3/2/26  

Caption

AN ACT Relating to the Washington college grant and college bound scholarship program for students attending private four-year not-for-profit institutions of higher education in Washington;

Impact

The impact of SB5828 on state laws involves enhancing the existing scholarship programs to cover students attending private four-year colleges. By doing this, the bill could facilitate a more diverse educational landscape and provide more choices for students, potentially leading to an increase in enrollment in private institutions. This legislative move is designed to align incentives with educational goals, ensuring that more students in Washington have the resources necessary to achieve their academic aspirations.

Summary

SB5828 focuses on the Washington college grant and college bound scholarship program, specifically aimed at students who are attending private, four-year not-for-profit institutions of higher education in Washington State. This legislation seeks to expand access to financial aid for eligible students, thereby promoting higher education and reducing financial barriers for students wishing to pursue degrees at private colleges. The bill's implications are significant as it addresses educational equity and the financial challenges faced by students when choosing their college institutions.

Sentiment

Sentiment around SB5828 appears to be largely positive from educational advocates and stakeholders who recognize the need for increased access to funding. Proponents argue that expanding the scholarship programs represents a commitment to making higher education possible for a broader audience, thus fostering a more educated and skilled workforce. Conversely, there may be concerns from public university advocates who fear that private institutions could receive undue financial benefits at the expense of funding for state schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention could center around the balance of state funding between private and public higher education colleges. Critics may argue that allocating state resources to private institutions diverts necessary funds from public universities, which serve a larger demographic of students. Furthermore, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of the proposed funding levels for the scholarships and whether they sufficiently address the financial needs of students across different income levels.

Companion Bills

WA HB2567

Crossfiled AN ACT Relating to the Washington college grant and college bound scholarship program for students attending private four-year not-for-profit institutions of higher education in Washington;

Previously Filed As

WA HB2567

Concerning the Washington college grant and college bound scholarship program for students attending private four-year not-for-profit institutions of higher education in Washington.

WA SB5785

AN ACT Relating to modifying students' share of the education costs at institutions of higher education;

WA SB6209

Revised for 1st substitute: Concerning financial aid awards for students attending private four-year and two-year institutions of higher education.

WA HB1838

Expanding access to the Washington college grant to students enrolled in certificate programs for high-demand fields.

WA SB5205

Concerning Washington college grant award amounts.

WA HB2458

Expanding access to the Washington college grant to students enrolled in eligible postsecondary nondegree credential programs.

WA HB1143

Concerning Washington college grant award amounts.

WA SB6217

Expanding access to the Washington college grant to students enrolled in eligible postsecondary nondegree credential programs.

WA SB5963

AN ACT Relating to modifying funding for the passport to careers program, and permitting students eligible for the passport to careers program to automatically qualify as income-eligible for the purpose of receiving the Washington college grant;

WA HB2586

Modifying funding for the passport to careers program and eligibility for the Washington college grant.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.