Bill would auto-qualify Passport to Careers students for Washington College Grant
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Summary
Substitute Senate Bill 5,963 would automatically make eligible Passport to Careers participants income-eligible for the Washington College Grant beginning in 2026–27 and align need calculations with the federal student aid index; witnesses said it would reduce barriers for former foster and unaccompanied homeless youth.
The committee heard Substitute Senate Bill 5,963 on Feb. 18, a measure that would automatically qualify students enrolled in the Passport to Careers program for the Washington College Grant beginning in the 2026–27 academic year and align the program’s financial-need calculation with the federal student aid index.
Staff presented the bill and said it also requires the Office of Student Financial Assistance to deposit Passport to Careers funds into the state financial aid account so appropriations meant for statewide student aid are available to eligible students.
Joel Anderson of the Student Achievement Council (WASAC) said Passport to Careers supports former foster youth and unaccompanied homeless youth, populations that face substantial barriers to enrollment and completion. "This legislation would enable WASAC to promise aid to these students sooner, as early as 13 years old for those in the foster care system," Anderson said, describing how data-sharing agreements would let agencies identify and streamline support for eligible students.
Sanna Gerard, speaking for the Washington Student Association, said automatic qualification would provide security for students who face instability and urged committee support. "Allowing PTC students to auto qualify for the Washington College Grant provides a sense of security in a system filled with so much insecurity," she said.
Christopher Rosenquist, representing students at Western Washington University, said the university’s Passport to Careers population has increased by 240% and that participating students demonstrate high retention and academic standing, arguing those trends support the policy change.
Vice Chair Nance reported 260 sign-ins on the measure (258 pro, 2 con) and the committee closed the public hearing without a vote. Chair Paul said members would caucus and that he intends to consider the bills at the committee's Tuesday 'exec' meeting if a majority agrees. No formal committee action occurred during the Feb. 18 hearing.