title: RCW 28B.102.030

text:
In administering educator conditional scholarship and loan repayment programs under this chapter, the student achievement council shall have the following powers and duties:
(1) Select persons to receive conditional scholarships or loan repayments;
(2) Adopt necessary rules and guidelines;
(3) Publicize the programs in collaboration with the office of the superintendent of public instruction and the Washington professional educator standards board;
(4) Collect and manage repayments from participants who do not meet their service obligations under this chapter; and
(5) Solicit and accept grants and donations from public and private sources for the programs.
[ 2019 c 295 s 212; 2012 c 229 s 563; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 177; 2004 c 58 s 3; 1987 c 437 s 3.]
Notes:
Intent—2019 c 295: "(1) By amending the financial assistance programs under this chapter, the legislature intends to: (a) Provide assistance to a broad range of educators including, though not exclusively to, certificated teachers; (b) attract and retain potential educators, especially to meet areas of educator shortage; (c) streamline the administration of the programs; and (d) make the use of state appropriations more flexible.
(2) The legislature intends for the student achievement council to balance the number, the amount, and the type of awards distributed. When selecting participants and defining the awards, the student achievement council shall consult with stakeholders to: (a) Consider the purpose of each financial assistance program; (b) recognize the total cost of attendance to complete an educator preparation program; and (c) consider the needs of the education system, including the need for educators in shortage areas." [ 2019 c 295 s 210.]
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Educator conditional scholarship and loan repayment programs—Powers and duties of student achievement council.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 28B.102.045

text:
To receive additional disbursements under a conditional scholarship program authorized by this chapter, a participant must be considered by his or her Washington professional educator standards board-approved educator preparation program to be in a satisfactory progress condition.
[ 2019 c 295 s 214; 2004 c 58 s 5; 1988 c 125 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Conditional scholarship program—Satisfactory progress required.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 28B.102.055

text:
(1) Upon documentation of federal student loan indebtedness, the office may enter into agreements with certificated teachers to repay all or part of a federal student loan in exchange for teaching service in a shortage area in an approved education program. Teachers eligible for loan repayment under this section must hold an endorsement in the content area in which they are assigned to teach during the period of repayment.
(2) The agreement shall specify the period of time it is in effect and detail the obligations of the office and the participant, including the amount to be paid to the participant. The ratio of loan repayment to years of teaching service for the loan repayment program must be the same as established for the conditional scholarship programs under RCW 28B.102.150. The agreement must also specify the shortage area of teaching service for which loan repayment will be provided.
(3) At the end of each school year, a participant under this section shall provide evidence to the office that the requisite teaching service has been provided. Upon receipt of the evidence, the office shall pay the participant the agreed-upon amount for one year of full-time teaching service or a prorated amount for less than full-time teaching service. To qualify for additional loan repayments, the participant must be engaged in continuous teaching service as defined by the office. The office may approve leaves of absence from continuous service and other deferments as may be necessary.
(4) The office may, at its discretion, arrange to make the loan repayment directly to the holder of the participant's federal student loan.
(5) The office may not reimburse a participant for loan repayments made before the participant entered into an agreement with the office under this section.
(6) The office's obligations to a participant under this section shall cease when:
(a) The terms of the agreement have been fulfilled;
(b) The participant is assigned to teach in a content area in which he or she is not endorsed;
(c) The participant fails to maintain continuous teaching service as determined by the office; or
(d) All of the participant's federal student loans have been repaid.
[ 2019 c 295 s 222; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 180; 2004 c 58 s 8.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Loan repayment agreements.


title: RCW 28B.102.080

text:
(1) The educator conditional scholarship account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. An appropriation is not required for expenditures of funds from the account. The account is not subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW except for moneys used for program administration.
(2) The office shall deposit in the account all moneys received for the educator conditional scholarship and loan repayment programs under this chapter. The account shall be self-sustaining and consist of funds appropriated by the legislature for the educator conditional scholarship and loan repayment programs under this chapter, private contributions to the programs, and receipts from participant repayments from the programs. Beginning July 1, 2004, the office shall also deposit into the account: (a) All funds from the institution of higher education loan account that are traceable to any conditional scholarship program for teachers or prospective teachers established by the legislature before June 10, 2004; and (b) all amounts repaid by participants under any such program.
(3) Expenditures from the account may be used only for the purposes of this chapter.
(4) Disbursements from the account may be made only on the authorization of the office.
[ 2019 c 295 s 224; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 182; 2010 1st sp.s. c 37 s 917; 2007 c 396 s 9; 2004 c 58 s 9.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 37: See note following RCW 13.06.050.
Captions not law—2007 c 396: See note following RCW 28A.305.215.
Finding—Intent—2007 c 396: See note following RCW 28A.188.020.

catchline: Educator conditional scholarship account.


title: RCW 28B.102.090

text:
(1) The teacher shortage conditional scholarship program is created. The purpose of the program is to provide financial aid to encourage persons to become teachers and to retain these teachers in shortage areas.
(2) To qualify for the program an applicant must:
(a) Be accepted into, and maintain enrollment in, a Washington professional educator standards board-approved teacher preparation program leading to an initial teacher certificate; and
(b) Intend to pursue an initial teacher certificate with an endorsement in a shortage area.
(3) Participants are eligible to receive a teacher shortage conditional scholarship for up to four academic years.
[ 2019 c 295 s 216; 2016 c 233 s 15.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Teacher shortage conditional scholarship program.


title: RCW 28B.102.100

text:
(1)(a) The office is directed to maximize the impact of conditional scholarships and loan repayments awarded under this chapter in light of shortage areas and in response to the trending financial needs of the applicant pool.
(b) In maximizing the impact of the awards, the office may adjust the number and amounts of the conditional scholarships and loan repayments made each year. However, the maximum award authorized under this chapter is eight thousand dollars per person, per academic year. Beginning in the 2020-21 academic year, the office may adjust the maximum award by the average rate of resident undergraduate tuition and fee increases at the state universities as defined in RCW 28B.10.016.
(2) The allowable uses of a conditional scholarship under this chapter include the cost of attendance as determined by the office, such as tuition, room, board, and books.
(3) The award of a conditional scholarship under this chapter may not result in reduction of a participant's federal or other state financial aid.
(4) The office must make conditional scholarship and loan repayment awards from moneys in the educator conditional scholarship account created in RCW 28B.102.080.
[ 2019 c 295 s 215.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Maximization of awards.


title: RCW 28B.102.110

text:
(1) The alternative route conditional scholarship program is created. The purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance to encourage persons to become teachers through alternative route teacher certification programs and to retain these teachers in shortage areas.
(2) To qualify for the program an applicant must:
(a) Be accepted into, and maintain enrollment in, an alternative route teacher certification program under chapter 28A.660 RCW; and
(b) Intend to pursue an initial teacher certificate with an endorsement in a shortage area.
(3) Participants are eligible to receive an alternative route conditional scholarship for up to two academic years.
[ 2019 c 295 s 217.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Alternative route conditional scholarship program.


title: RCW 28B.102.120

text:
(1) The pipeline for paraeducators conditional scholarship program is created. The purpose of the program is to support paraeducators who wish to become teachers by providing financial aid for the completion of an associate of arts degree.
(2) To qualify for the program an applicant must:
(a) Not have earned a college degree;
(b) Provide documentation:
(i) From his or her school district or building of one year of successful student interaction and leadership as a classified instructional employee; or
(ii) Of his or her completion of two years of a recruiting Washington teachers program, established under RCW 28A.415.370;
(c) Intend to pursue an initial teacher certificate with an endorsement in a shortage area via a Washington professional educator standards board-approved teacher preparation program; and
(d) Be accepted into, and maintain enrollment for no more than the equivalent of four full-time academic years at, a community and technical college under RCW 28B.50.020.
(3) Participants are eligible to receive a pipeline for paraeducators conditional scholarship for up to four academic years.
(4) The office must prioritize applicants in the following order:
(a) Applicants recruited and supported by their school districts to become teachers;
(b) Applicants who completed two years of a recruiting Washington teachers program, established under RCW 28A.415.370; and
(c) Applicants intending to complete an associate of arts degree in two academic years or less.
[ 2019 c 295 s 218; 2017 c 237 s 19; 2007 c 396 s 6. Formerly RCW 28A.660.042.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.
Captions not law—2007 c 396: See note following RCW 28A.305.215.
Finding—Intent—2007 c 396: See note following RCW 28A.188.020.

catchline: Pipeline for paraeducators conditional scholarship program.


title: RCW 28B.102.130

text:
(1) The educator retooling conditional scholarship program is created. The purpose of the program is to increase the number of public school teachers with endorsements in shortage areas.
(2) To qualify for the program an applicant must:
(a) Hold a current Washington teacher certificate or an expired Washington teacher certificate issued after 2005;
(b) Pursue an additional endorsement in a shortage area; and
(c) Use one of the Washington professional educator standards board's pathways to complete the additional endorsement requirements in the equivalent of one full-time academic year.
(3) Participants are eligible to receive an educator retooling conditional scholarship for up to two academic years.
[ 2019 c 295 s 219; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 9 s 1; 2015 1st sp.s. c 3 s 3; 2007 c 396 s 7. Formerly RCW 28A.660.045.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.
Captions not law—2007 c 396: See note following RCW 28A.305.215.
Finding—Intent—2007 c 396: See note following RCW 28A.188.020.

catchline: Educator retooling conditional scholarship program.


title: RCW 28B.102.140

text:
(1) The career and technical education conditional scholarship program is created. The purpose of the program is to provide financial aid for nonteachers and teachers to obtain necessary certificates and endorsements through any approved route to become career and technical education teachers.
(2) To qualify for the program, an applicant must be:
(a) Accepted into, and maintain enrollment in, a Washington professional educator standards board-approved teacher preparation program; and
(b) Pursuing the necessary certificates and endorsements to teach career and technical education courses.
(3) The office must give priority to applicants who:
(a) Possess a professional license and occupational industry experience applicable to the career and technical education endorsement being pursued; or
(b) Are accepted into an alternative route teacher certification program under RCW 28A.660.020.
(4) Participants are eligible to receive a career and technical education conditional scholarship for up to two academic years.
[ 2019 c 295 s 220.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Career and technical education conditional scholarship program.


title: RCW 28B.102.150

text:
(1)(a) A conditional scholarship awarded under this chapter is forgiven when the participant fulfills the terms of his or her service obligation. The office shall develop the service obligation terms for each conditional scholarship program under this chapter, including that participants must either:
(i) Serve as a certificated employee in an approved education program for two full-time school years for each year of conditional scholarship received; or
(ii) Serve as a certificated employee in a shortage area in an approved education program for one full-time school year for each year of conditional scholarship received.
(b) For participants who meet the terms of their service obligation, the office shall forgive the conditional scholarships according to the service obligation terms and shall maintain all necessary records of such forgiveness.
(2)(a) Participants who do not fulfill their service obligation as required under subsection (1) of this section incur an obligation to repay the conditional scholarship award, with interest and other fees. The office shall develop repayment terms for each conditional scholarship program under this chapter, including interest rate, other fees, minimum payment, and maximum repayment period.
(b) The office shall collect repayments from participants who do not fulfill their service obligation as required under subsection (1) of this section. Collection and servicing of repayments under this section must be pursued using the full extent of the law, including wage garnishment if necessary. The office shall exercise due diligence in maintaining all necessary records to ensure that maximum repayments are collected.
(3) The office shall establish a process for forgiveness, deferment, or forbearance for participants who fail to complete their service obligation due to circumstances beyond the participants' control, for example certain medical conditions, military deployment, declassification of a participant's shortage area, or hardship for a participant to relocate to an approved education program with a shortage area, provided the participant was serving as a certificated employee in a shortage area in an approved education program.
[ 2019 c 295 s 221.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Conditional scholarships—Forgiveness and repayment.


title: RCW 28B.102.160

text:
Beginning November 1, 2020, and by November 1st each even-numbered year thereafter, the office shall submit a report, in accordance with RCW 43.01.036, to the appropriate committees of the legislature recommending whether the educator conditional scholarship and loan repayment programs under this chapter should be continued, modified, or terminated. The report must include information about the number of applicants for, and participants in, each program. To the extent possible, this information should be disaggregated by age, gender, race and ethnicity, family income, and unmet financial need. The report must include information about participant deferments and repayments. The report must also include information on moneys received by and disbursed from the educator conditional scholarship account under RCW 28B.102.080 each fiscal year.
[ 2019 c 295 s 223.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Educator conditional scholarship and loan repayment programs—Report.


title: RCW 28B.102.170

text:
Nothing in RCW 28B.102.020, 28B.102.030, 28B.102.045, 28B.102.055, 28B.102.080 through 28B.102.160, 43.79A.040, or sections 210 and 226, chapter 295, Laws of 2019 modifies or otherwise affects conditional scholarship or loan repayment agreements under this chapter or chapter 28A.660 RCW existing before May 8, 2019.
[ 2019 c 295 s 229.]
Notes:
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28A.310.235.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See notes following RCW 28B.10.033.
Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28B.102.030.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.415.265.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 295: See note following RCW 28A.180.120.

catchline: Application—Conditional scholarship and loan repayment agreements.


title: RCW 28B.103.010

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Dependent" means a person enrolled as a dependent in the defense enrollment eligibility reporting system.
(2) "Eligible student" means a member of the Washington national guard or the spouse or dependent of, and designated by, a member who agrees to fulfill his or her service obligation and meets any additional selection criteria adopted by the office and all of the following participation requirements:
(a) Is enrolled in courses or a program that lead to a postsecondary degree or certificate at an institution of higher education located in the state and accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges, or an institution that is located in the state that provides approved training under the Montgomery GI Bill;
(b) Is an active drilling member, or the spouse or dependent of, and designated by, an active drilling member. The member must be in good standing in the Washington national guard as specified in rules adopted by the office for implementation of the grant;
(c) Has completed and submitted an application for student aid approved by the office; and
(d) Is a resident student as defined in RCW 28B.15.012.
(3) "Forgiven" or "to forgive" or "forgiveness" means either to render service in the Washington national guard in lieu of monetary repayment, or to be relieved of the service obligation under rules adopted by the office.
(4) "Grant" means the Washington national guard postsecondary education grant as established in RCW 28B.103.020.
(5) "Maximum benefit" means the maximum grant a Washington national guard member and the guard member's spouse and dependents are eligible to receive.
(6) "Member" means a member of the Washington national guard who has received, or whose spouse or dependent has received, a grant under this chapter.
(7) "Office" means the office of student financial assistance created in RCW 28B.76.090.
(8) "Participant" means an eligible student who has received a grant under this chapter.
(9) "Service obligation" means an obligation by the member to serve in the Washington national guard for a time period of at least one year of service in the Washington national guard for each year the participant receives a grant.
[ 2024 c 178 s 1; 2022 c 68 s 1; 2020 c 297 s 1; 2006 c 71 s 1; 2000 c 159 s 1; 1994 c 234 s 5.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 28B.103.020

text:
Subject to amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the Washington national guard postsecondary education grant program is established. The program shall be administered by the office. In administering the program, the powers and duties of the office shall include, but need not be limited to:
(1) With the assistance of the Washington military department, the selection of eligible students to receive the grant as follows:
(a) An eligible student may receive a grant under this section to help pay for postsecondary education program costs as approved by the office. Grants may not:
(i) Exceed the maximum Washington college grant as defined in RCW 28B.92.030, plus $500 for books and supplies;
(ii) Exceed the participant's cost of attendance, when combined with all other public and private grants, scholarships, and waiver assistance the participant receives; and
(iii) Result in reduction of a participant's federal or other state financial aid.
(b) The Washington military department shall ensure that data needed to identify eligible students are promptly transmitted to the office.
(c) The annual amount of each grant may vary, but may not exceed the annual cost of undergraduate tuition fees and services and activities fees at the University of Washington, plus an allowance for books and supplies.
(d) The maximum benefit a single guard member, or a combination of the guard member and the guard member's designated spouse or dependents, may receive may not extend beyond six full-time years, or the credit or clock-hour equivalent;
(2) The award of grants funded by federal and state funds, private donations, or repayments from any participant who does not complete the participant's service obligation;
(3) The adoption of necessary rules and policies, including establishing a priority for eligible students attending an institution of higher education located in this state that is accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges;
(4) The adoption of participant selection criteria. The criteria may include but need not be limited to requirements for: Satisfactory academic progress, enrollment in courses or programs that lead to a baccalaureate degree or an associate degree or a certificate, and satisfactory participation as a member of the Washington national guard;
(5) With the assistance of the Washington military department, the notification of members of their additional service obligation or required repayment of the grant; and
(6) The collection of repayments from members who do not meet the service obligations.
[ 2024 c 178 s 2; 2022 c 68 s 2; 2020 c 297 s 2; 2006 c 71 s 2; 1994 c 234 s 6.]

catchline: Program established—Powers and duties of office.


title: RCW 28B.103.030

text:
(1) Members incur an obligation to repay the grant, with interest, unless they serve in the Washington national guard for one year for each year they or their spouse or dependent received the grant, under rules adopted by the office.
(2) The office shall adopt rules addressing the terms for repayment, including applicable interest rates, fees, deferments, and appeals, by a member who does not render service as a member of the Washington national guard necessary to satisfy his or her service obligation.
(3) The office is responsible for collection of repayments made under this section. The office shall exercise due diligence in such collection, maintaining all necessary records to ensure that maximum repayments are made. Collection and servicing of repayments under this section shall be pursued using the full extent of law, including wage garnishment if necessary. The office is responsible to forgive all or parts of such repayments under the criteria established in this section, and shall maintain all necessary records of forgiven payments.
(4) Receipts from the payment of principal or interest paid by or on behalf of participants shall be deposited with the office and shall be used to cover the costs of administration of the grant, maintaining necessary records, and making collections under subsection (3) of this section. The office shall maintain accurate records of these costs, and all receipts beyond those necessary to pay such costs shall be used to make grant awards to eligible students.
[ 2024 c 178 s 3; 2020 c 297 s 3; 2012 c 229 s 607; 1994 c 234 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.

catchline: Repayment obligation.


title: RCW 28B.103.040

text:
A guard member and the guard member's designated spouse and dependents may simultaneously use the grant, subject to any rules adopted by the office, and the limitation on the maximum benefit.
[ 2024 c 178 s 4.]

catchline: Simultaneous use permitted.


title: RCW 28B.105.010

text:
(1) The GET ready for math and science scholarship program is established. The purpose of the program is to provide scholarships to students who achieve level four on the mathematics or science portions of the high school statewide student assessment or achieve a score in the math section of the SAT or the math section of the ACT that is above the ninety-fifth percentile, major in a mathematics, science, or related field in college, and commit to working in mathematics, science, or a related field for at least three years in Washington following completion of their bachelor's degree. The program shall be administered by the nonprofit organization selected as the private partner in the public-private partnership.
(2) The total annual amount of each GET ready for math and science scholarship may vary, but shall not exceed the annual cost of resident undergraduate tuition fees and mandatory fees at the University of Washington. An eligible recipient may receive a GET ready for math and science scholarship for up to one hundred eighty quarter credits, or the semester equivalent, or for up to five years, whichever comes first.
(3) Scholarships shall be awarded only to the extent that state funds and private matching funds are available for that purpose in the GET ready for math and science scholarship account established in RCW 28B.105.110.
[ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 22 s 10; 2007 c 214 s 1.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2013 2nd sp.s. c 22: See note following RCW 28A.655.068.

catchline: GET ready for math and science scholarship program—Purpose—Awards.


title: RCW 28B.105.020

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "GET units" means tuition units under the advanced college tuition payment program in chapter 28B.95 RCW.
(2) "Institution of higher education" has the same meaning as in RCW 28B.92.030(4) (a) and (b) (i) and (ii).
(3) "Office" means the office of student financial assistance.
(4) "Program administrator" means the private nonprofit corporation that is registered under Title 24 RCW and qualified as a tax-exempt entity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code, that will serve as the private partner in the public-private partnership under this chapter.
(5) "Qualified program" or "qualified major" means a mathematics, science, or related degree program or major line of study offered by an institution of higher education that is included on the list of programs or majors selected by the office and the program administrator under RCW 28B.105.100.
[ 2013 c 248 s 3; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 183; 2007 c 214 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2013 c 248: See notes following RCW 28B.92.030.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.


title: RCW 28B.105.030

text:
(1) An eligible student is a student who:
(a) Is eligible for resident tuition and fee rates as defined in RCW 28B.15.012;
(b) Achieved level four on the mathematics or science portion of the high school statewide student assessment or achieved a score in the math section of the SAT or the math section of the ACT that is above the ninety-fifth percentile;
(c) Has a family income at or below one hundred twenty-five percent of the state median family income at the time the student applies for a GET ready for math and science scholarship and for up to the two previous years;
(d) Has declared an intention to complete a qualified program or qualified major or has entered a qualified program or declared a qualified major at an institution of higher education;
(e) Has declared an intention to work in a mathematics, science, or related field in Washington for at least three years immediately following completion of a bachelor's degree or higher degree.
(2) An eligible recipient is an eligible student who:
(a) Has been awarded a scholarship in accordance with the selection criteria and process established by the student achievement council and the program administrator;
(b) Enrolls at an institution of higher education within one year of graduating from high school;
(c) Maintains satisfactory academic progress, as defined by the institution of higher education where the student is enrolled;
(d) Takes at least one college-level mathematics or science course each term since enrolling in an institution of higher education; and
(e) Enters a qualified program or qualified major no later than the end of the first term in which the student has junior level standing.
[ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 22 s 11; 2007 c 214 s 3.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2013 2nd sp.s. c 22: See note following RCW 28A.655.068.

catchline: Eligibility.


title: RCW 28B.105.040

text:
(1) If the student enrolls in a qualified program or declares a qualified major and the program or major is subsequently removed from the list of qualified programs and qualified majors by the office and the program administrator, the student's eligibility to receive a GET ready for math and science scholarship shall not be affected.
(2) If a student who received a GET ready for math and science scholarship ceases to be enrolled in an institution of higher education, withdraws or is no longer enrolled in a qualified program, declares a major that is not a qualified major, or otherwise is no longer eligible to receive a GET ready for math and science scholarship, the student shall notify the program administrator as soon as practicable and is not eligible for further GET ready for math and science scholarship awards. Such a student shall also repay the amount of the GET ready for math and science scholarship awarded to the student as required by RCW 28B.105.050.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 184; 2007 c 214 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Changes in eligibility—Consequences.


title: RCW 28B.105.050

text:
(1) A recipient of a GET ready for math and science scholarship incurs an obligation to repay the scholarship, with interest and an equalization fee, if he or she does not:
(a) Graduate with a bachelor's degree from a qualified program or in a qualified major within five years of first enrolling at an institution of higher education; and
(b) Work in Washington in a mathematics, science, or related occupation full time for at least three years following completion of a bachelor's degree, unless he or she is enrolled in a graduate degree program as provided in subsection (4) of this section.
(2) A former scholarship recipient who has earned a bachelor's degree shall annually verify to the office that he or she is working full time in a mathematics, science, or related field for three years.
(3) If a former scholarship recipient begins but then stops working full time in a mathematics, science, or related field within three years following completion of a bachelor's degree, he or she shall pay back a prorated portion of the amount of the GET ready for math and science scholarship award received by the recipient, plus interest and a prorated equalization fee.
(4) A recipient may postpone for up to three years his or her in-state work obligation if he or she enrolls full time in a graduate degree program in mathematics, science, or a related field.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 185; 2007 c 214 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Repayment obligation—Conditions.


title: RCW 28B.105.060

text:
The office of the superintendent of public instruction shall:
(1) Notify elementary, middle, junior high, high school, and school district staff and administrators, and the department of children, youth, and families about the GET ready for math and science scholarship program using methods in place for communicating with schools and school districts; and
(2) Provide data showing the race, ethnicity, income, and other available demographic information of students who achieve level four on the math and science high school statewide student assessment; compare those data with comparable information on the student population as a whole; and submit a report with the analysis to the committees responsible for education and higher education in the legislature on December 1st of even-numbered years.
[ 2018 c 58 s 62; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 22 s 12; 2007 c 214 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2018 c 58: See note following RCW 28A.655.080.
Findings—Intent—2013 2nd sp.s. c 22: See note following RCW 28A.655.068.

catchline: Office of the superintendent of public instruction—Duties.


title: RCW 28B.105.070

text:
The office shall:
(1) Purchase GET units to be owned and held in trust by the office, for the purpose of scholarship awards as provided for in this section;
(2) Distribute scholarship funds, in the form of GET units or through direct payments from the GET ready for math and science scholarship account, to institutions of higher education on behalf of eligible recipients identified by the program administrator;
(3) Provide the program administrator with annual reports regarding enrollment, contact, and graduation information of GET ready for math and science scholarship recipients, if the recipients have given permission for the office to do so;
(4) Collect repayments from former scholarship recipients who do not meet the eligibility criteria or work obligations;
(5) Establish rules for scholarship repayment, approved leaves of absence, deferments, and exceptions to recognize extenuating circumstances that may impact students; and
(6) Provide information to school districts in Washington, at least once per year, about the GET ready for math and science scholarship program.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 186; 2007 c 214 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Office of student financial assistance—Duties.


title: RCW 28B.105.080

text:
School districts shall:
(1) Notify parents, teachers, counselors, and principals about the GET ready for math and science scholarship program through existing channels. Notification methods may include, but are not limited to, regular school district and building communications, online scholarship bulletins and announcements, notices posted on school walls and bulletin boards, information available in each counselor's office, and school or district scholarship information sessions;
(2) Provide each student who achieves level four on the mathematics or science high school Washington assessment of student learning with information regarding the scholarship program and how to contact the program administrator.
[ 2007 c 214 s 8.]

catchline: School districts—Duties.


title: RCW 28B.105.090

text:
The program administrator shall:
(1) Solicit and accept grants and donations from private sources to match state funds appropriated for the GET ready for math and science scholarship program;
(2) Develop and implement an application, selection, and notification process for awarding GET ready for math and science scholarships;
(3) Notify institutions of higher education of scholarship recipients who will attend their institutions and inform them of the terms of the students' eligibility; and
(4) Report to private donors on the program outcomes and facilitate contact between scholarship recipients and donors, if the recipients have given the program administrator permission to do so, in order for donors to offer employment opportunities, internships, and career information to recipients.
[ 2007 c 214 s 9.]

catchline: Program administrator—Duties.


title: RCW 28B.105.100

text:
The office and the program administrator shall jointly:
(1) Determine criteria for qualifying undergraduate programs, majors, and courses leading to a bachelor's degree in mathematics, science, or a related field, offered by institutions of higher education. The office shall publish the criteria for qualified courses, and lists of qualified programs and qualified majors, on its website on a biennial basis; and
(2) Establish criteria for selecting among eligible applicants those who, without scholarship assistance, would be least likely to pursue a qualified undergraduate program at an institution of higher education in Washington state.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 187; 2007 c 214 s 10.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Office of student financial assistance and program administrator—Joint duties.


title: RCW 28B.105.110

text:
(1) The GET ready for math and science scholarship account is created in the custody of the state treasurer.
(2) The office shall deposit into the account all money received for the GET ready for math and science scholarship program from appropriations and private sources. The account shall be self-sustaining.
(3) Expenditures from the account shall be used for scholarships to eligible students and for purchases of GET units. Purchased GET units shall be owned and held in trust by the office. Expenditures from the account shall be an equal match of state appropriations and private funds raised by the program administrator. During the 2009-2011 fiscal biennium, expenditures from the account not to exceed five percent may be used by the program administrator to carry out the provisions of RCW 28B.105.090.
(4) With the exception of the operating costs associated with the management of the account by the treasurer's office as authorized in chapter 43.79A RCW, the account shall be credited with all investment income earned by the account.
(5) Disbursements from the account are exempt from appropriations and the allotment provisions of chapter 43.88 RCW.
(6) Disbursements from the account shall be made only on the authorization of the office.
(7) During the 2013-2015 fiscal biennium, appropriated state funds available in the GET ready for math and science scholarship account and GET units owned by the office and not used for the GET ready for math and science scholarship program may be used for the college bound scholarship program created in chapter 28B.118 RCW.
[ 2013 2nd sp.s. c 4 s 963; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 188; 2010 1st sp.s. c 37 s 918. Prior: 2009 c 564 s 1807; 2009 c 564 s 920; 2008 c 329 s 908; 2007 c 214 s 11.]
Notes:
Effective dates—2013 2nd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 37: See note following RCW 13.06.050.
Effective date—2009 c 564: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Severability—2008 c 329: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2008 c 329 s 928.]
Effective date—2008 c 329: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 1, 2008]." [ 2008 c 329 s 929.]

catchline: GET ready for math and science scholarship account.


title: RCW 28B.108.005

text:
The legislature recognizes the benefit to our state and nation of providing equal educational opportunities for all races and nationalities. The legislature finds that American Indian students are underrepresented in Washington's colleges and universities. The legislature also finds that past discriminatory practices have resulted in this underrepresentation. Creating an endowed scholarship program to help American Indian students obtain a higher education will help to rectify past discrimination by providing a means and an incentive for American Indian students to pursue a higher education. The state will benefit from contributions made by American Indians who participate in a program of higher education.
[ 1990 c 287 s 1.]

catchline: Findings.


title: RCW 28B.108.010

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Eligible student" or "student" means an American Indian who is a student who demonstrates financial need, as defined in RCW 28B.92.030, who is a resident student, as defined by RCW 28B.15.012(2), who is a full-time student at an institution of higher education, and who promises to use his or her education to benefit other American Indians.
(2) "Institution of higher education" or "institution" means a college or university in the state of Washington which is accredited by an accrediting association recognized as such by rule of the council for higher education.
(3) "Office" means the office of student financial assistance.
[ 2019 c 406 s 34. Prior: 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 191; 2004 c 275 s 69; 1991 c 228 s 10; 1990 c 287 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2019 c 406: See note following RCW 43.79.195.
Findings—Short title—2019 c 406: See notes following RCW 28B.92.200.
Findings—2019 c 406: See note following RCW 28B.94.020.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 406: See note following RCW 28C.30.050.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 406: See note following RCW 43.216.135.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Part headings not law—2004 c 275: See note following RCW 28B.76.090.


title: RCW 28B.108.020

text:
(1) The American Indian endowed scholarship program is created. The program shall be administered by the office. In administering the program, the office's powers and duties shall include but not be limited to:
(a) Selecting students to receive scholarships, with the assistance of a screening committee composed of persons involved in helping American Indian students to obtain a higher education. The membership of the committee may include, but is not limited to representatives of: Indian tribes, urban Indians, the governor's office of Indian affairs, the Washington state Indian education association, and institutions of higher education;
(b) Publicizing the program;
(c) Accepting and depositing donations into the endowment fund created in RCW 28B.108.060;
(d) Requesting from the state investment board and accepting from the state treasurer moneys earned from the endowment fund created in RCW 28B.108.060;
(e) Soliciting and accepting grants and donations from public and private sources for the program; and
(f) Naming scholarships in honor of those American Indians from Washington who have acted as role models.
(2) The student achievement council shall adopt necessary rules and guidelines for the American Indian endowed scholarship program.
[ 2012 c 229 s 608; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 192; 2009 c 259 s 1; 1990 c 287 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Program created—Duties of the office of student financial assistance—Screening committee.


title: RCW 28B.108.030

text:
The office shall establish an advisory committee to assist in program design and to develop criteria for the screening and selection of scholarship recipients. The committee shall be composed of representatives of the same groups as the screening committee described in RCW 28B.108.020. The criteria shall assess the student's social and cultural ties to an American Indian community within the state. The criteria shall include a priority for upper-division or graduate students. The criteria may include a priority for students who are majoring in program areas in which expertise is needed by the state's American Indians.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 193; 1991 c 228 s 11; 1990 c 287 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.

catchline: Advisory committee.


title: RCW 28B.108.040

text:
The office may award scholarships to eligible students from moneys earned from the endowment fund created in RCW 28B.108.060, or from funds appropriated to the council for this purpose, or from any private donations, or from any other funds given to the council for this program. For an undergraduate student, the amount of the scholarship shall not exceed the student's demonstrated financial need. For a graduate student, the amount of the scholarship shall not exceed the student's demonstrated need; or the stipend of a teaching assistant, including tuition, at the University of Washington; whichever is higher. In calculating a student's need, the office shall consider the student's costs for tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation, room, board, personal expenses, and child care. The student's scholarship awarded under this chapter shall not exceed the amount received by a student attending a state research university. A student is eligible to receive a scholarship for a maximum of five years. However, the length of the scholarship shall be determined at the discretion of the office.
[ 2012 c 229 s 564; 1990 c 287 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.

catchline: Award of scholarships—Amount—Duration.


title: RCW 28B.108.060

text:
The American Indian scholarship endowment fund is created in the custody of the state treasurer. Funds appropriated by the legislature for the endowment fund must be deposited into the fund.
(1) Moneys received from the office, private donations, state moneys, and funds received from any other source may be deposited into the endowment fund. Private moneys received as a gift subject to conditions may be deposited into the fund. The investment of private moneys in the fund shall be managed by the state investment board.
(2) At the request of the office, the state investment board shall release earnings from the private moneys invested by it to the state treasurer.
(3) When a condition attached to a gift of private moneys in the fund has failed, the office shall then release the moneys to the donors according to the terms of the conditional gift.
(4) The principal of the endowment fund shall not be invaded. The release of moneys under subsection (3) of this section shall not constitute an invasion of corpus.
(5) The earnings on the fund shall be used solely for the purposes set forth in RCW 28B.108.040, except when the terms of a conditional gift of private moneys in the fund require that a portion of earnings on such moneys be reinvested in the fund. An appropriation is not required for expenditures from the endowment fund.
[ 2012 c 187 s 3; (2012 c 187 s 2 expired July 1, 2012); 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 194; 2009 c 259 s 2; 2007 c 73 s 2; 1993 c 372 s 1; 1991 sp.s. c 13 s 110; 1990 c 287 s 7.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 187 ss 3 and 5: "Sections 3 and 5 of this act take effect July 1, 2012." [ 2012 c 187 s 19.]
Expiration date—2012 c 187 ss 2 and 4: "Sections 2 and 4 of this act expire July 1, 2012." [ 2012 c 187 s 18.]
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Effective dates—1991 sp.s. c 13: See note following RCW 18.04.105.

catchline: Scholarship endowment fund.


title: RCW 28B.109.010

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Eligible participant" means an international student whose country of residence has a trade relationship with the state of Washington.
(2) "Institution of higher education" or "institution" means a college or university in the state of Washington that is accredited by an accrediting association recognized as such by rule of the student achievement council.
(3) "Office" means the office of student financial assistance.
(4) "Service obligation" means volunteering for a minimum number of hours as established by the student achievement council based on the amount of scholarship award, to speak to or teach groups of Washington citizens, including but not limited to elementary, middle, and high schools, service clubs, and universities.
(5) "Washington international exchange scholarship program" means a scholarship award for a period not to exceed one academic year to attend a Washington institution of higher education made to an international student whose country has an established trade relationship with Washington.
[ 2012 c 229 s 565; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 195; 1996 c 253 s 401.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Findings—Purpose—1996 c 253: "(1) The legislature finds that:
(a) Educational, cultural, and business exchange programs are important in developing mutually beneficial relationships between Washington state and other countries;
(b) Enhanced international trade, cultural, and educational opportunities are developed when cities, counties, ports, and others establish sister relationships with their counterparts in other countries;
(c) It is important to the economic future of the state to promote international awareness and understanding; and
(d) The state's economy and economic well-being depend heavily on foreign trade and international exchanges.
(2) The legislature declares that the purpose of chapter 253, Laws of 1996 is to:
(a) Enhance Washington state's ability to develop relationships and contacts throughout the world enabling us to expand international education and trade opportunities for all citizens of the state;
(b) Develop and maintain an international database of contacts in international trade markets;
(c) Encourage outstanding international students who reside in countries with existing trade relationships to attend Washington state's institutions of higher education; and
(d) Encourage Washington students to attend institutions of higher education located in countries with existing trading relationships with Washington state." [ 1996 c 253 s 1.]
Severability—1996 c 253: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1996 c 253 s 504.]
Part headings not law—1996 c 253: "Part headings as used in this act constitute no part of the law." [ 1996 c 253 s 505.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 28B.109.020

text:
The Washington international exchange scholarship program is created. The program shall be administered by the office. In administering the program, the office may:
(1) Convene an advisory committee that may include but need not be limited to representatives of the office of the superintendent of public instruction, the department of commerce, the secretary of state, private business, and institutions of higher education;
(2) Select students to receive the scholarship with the assistance of a screening committee composed of leaders in business, international trade, and education;
(3) Adopt necessary rules and guidelines including rules for disbursing scholarship funds to participants;
(4) Publicize the program;
(5) Solicit and accept grants and donations from public and private sources for the program;
(6) Establish and notify participants of service obligations; and
(7) Establish a formula for selecting the countries from which participants may be selected in consultation with the department of commerce.
[ 2012 c 198 s 22; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 196; 1996 c 253 s 402.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 198: See note following RCW 70A.15.5110.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Part headings not law—1996 c 253: See notes following RCW 28B.109.010.

catchline: Washington international exchange scholarship program—Administration by office of student financial assistance.


title: RCW 28B.109.030

text:
The office may negotiate and enter into a reciprocal agreement with foreign countries that have international students attending institutions in Washington. The goal of the reciprocal agreements shall be to allow Washington students enrolled in an institution of higher education to attend an international institution under similar terms and conditions.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 197; 1996 c 253 s 403.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Part headings not law—1996 c 253: See notes following RCW 28B.109.010.

catchline: Reciprocal agreements to attend foreign institutions.


title: RCW 28B.109.040

text:
If funds are available, the office shall select students yearly to receive a Washington international exchange student scholarship from funds appropriated to the office for this purpose, or from any private donations, or from any other funds given to the office for this program.
[ 2012 c 198 s 23; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 198; 1996 c 253 s 404.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 198: See note following RCW 70A.15.5110.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Part headings not law—1996 c 253: See notes following RCW 28B.109.010.

catchline: Washington international exchange student scholarships.


title: RCW 28B.109.070

text:
The office may request that the treasurer deposit state matching funds into the Washington international exchange scholarship endowment fund when the office can match the state funds with an equal amount of private cash donations, including conditional gifts.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 201; 1996 c 253 s 407.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Part headings not law—1996 c 253: See notes following RCW 28B.109.010.

catchline: Washington international exchange scholarship endowment fund—State matching funds.


title: RCW 28B.109.080

text:
Each Washington international exchange scholarship recipient shall agree to complete the service obligation as defined by the office.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 202; 1996 c 253 s 408.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 11 ss 101-103, 106-202, 204-244, and 301: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Part headings not law—1996 c 253: See notes following RCW 28B.109.010.


title: RCW 28B.110.010

text:
Article XXXI, section 1, Amendment 61 of the Washington state Constitution requires equal treatment of all citizens, regardless of gender. Recognizing the benefit to our state and nation of equal educational opportunities for all students, discrimination on the basis of gender against any student in the institutions of higher education of Washington state is prohibited.
[ 1989 c 341 s 1.]

catchline: Discrimination prohibited.


title: RCW 28B.110.020

text:
For purposes of this chapter, "institutions of higher education" or "institutions" include the state universities, regional universities, The Evergreen State College, and the community colleges.
[ 1989 c 341 s 2.]


title: RCW 28B.110.030

text:
In consultation with institutions of higher education, the student achievement council shall develop rules and guidelines to eliminate possible gender discrimination to students, including sexual harassment, at institutions of higher education as defined in RCW 28B.10.016. The rules and guidelines shall include but not be limited to access to academic programs, student employment, counseling and guidance services, financial aid, recreational activities including club sports, and intercollegiate athletics.
(1) With respect to higher education student employment, all institutions shall be required to:
(a) Make no differentiation in pay scales on the basis of gender;
(b) Assign duties without regard to gender except where there is a bona fide occupational qualification as approved by the Washington human rights commission;
(c) Provide the same opportunities for advancement to males and females; and
(d) Make no difference in the conditions of employment on the basis of gender in areas including, but not limited to, hiring practices, leaves of absence, and hours of employment.
(2) With respect to admission standards, admissions to academic programs shall be made without regard to gender.
(3) Counseling and guidance services for students shall be made available to all students without regard to gender. All academic and counseling personnel shall be required to stress access to all career and vocational opportunities to students without regard to gender.
(4) All academic programs shall be available to students without regard to gender.
(5) With respect to recreational activities, recreational activities shall be offered to meet the interests of students. Institutions which provide the following shall do so with no disparities based on gender: Equipment and supplies; medical care; services and insurance; transportation and per diem allowances; opportunities to receive coaching and instruction; laundry services; assignment of game officials; opportunities for competition, publicity, and awards; and scheduling of games and practice times, including use of courts, gyms, and pools. Each institution which provides showers, toilets, lockers, or training room facilities for recreational purposes shall provide comparable facilities for both males and females.
(6) With respect to financial aid, financial aid shall be equitably awarded by type of aid, with no disparities based on gender.
(7) With respect to intercollegiate athletics, institutions that provide the following shall do so with no disparities based on gender:
(a) Benefits and services including, but not limited to, equipment and supplies; medical services; services and insurance; transportation and per diem allowances; opportunities to receive coaching and instruction; scholarships and other forms of financial aid; conditioning programs; laundry services; assignment of game officials; opportunities for competition, publicity, and awards; and scheduling of games and practice times, including use of courts, gyms, and pools. Each institution which provides showers, toilets, lockers, or training room facilities for athletic purposes shall provide comparable facilities for both males and females.
(b) Opportunities to participate in intercollegiate athletics. Institutions shall provide equitable opportunities to male and female students.
(c) Male and female coaches and administrators. Institutions shall attempt to provide some coaches and administrators of each gender to act as role models for male and female athletes.
(8) Each institution shall develop and distribute policies and procedures for handling complaints of sexual harassment and sexual violence. Institutional sexual violence policies should include, but are not limited to, information about the institution's Title IX compliance officer or other individuals at the institution responsible for handling sexual violence violations and potential criminal conduct. Institutions shall annually distribute these policies and procedures in writing or electronically to all students and employees.
[ 2015 c 92 s 6; 2012 c 229 s 566; 1989 c 341 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.

catchline: Rules and guidelines.


title: RCW 28B.110.040

text:
The executive director of the student achievement council, in consultation with the council of presidents and the state board for community and technical colleges, shall monitor the compliance by institutions of higher education with this chapter.
(1) The council shall establish a timetable and guidelines for compliance with this chapter.
(2) By November 30, 1990, each institution shall submit to the council for approval a plan to comply with the requirements of RCW 28B.110.030. The plan shall contain measures to ensure institutional compliance with the provisions of this chapter by September 30, 1994. If participation in activities, such as intercollegiate athletics and matriculation in academic programs is not proportionate to the percentages of male and female enrollment, the plan should outline efforts to identify barriers to equal participation and to encourage gender equity in all aspects of college and university life.
(3) The council may delegate to the state board for community and technical colleges any or all responsibility for community college compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
[ 2012 c 229 s 567; 2011 1st sp.s. c 11 s 203; 1997 c 5 s 5; 1989 c 341 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Intent—2011 1st sp.s. c 11: See note following RCW 28B.76.020.
Effective date—1997 c 5: See note following RCW 28B.15.455.

catchline: Compliance—Community colleges.


title: RCW 28B.110.050

text:
A violation of this chapter shall constitute an unfair practice under chapter 49.60 RCW, the law against discrimination. All rights and remedies under chapter 49.60 RCW, including the right to file a complaint with the human rights commission and to bring a civil action, shall apply.
[ 1989 c 341 s 5.]

catchline: Violation of chapter.


title: RCW 28B.110.060

text:
This chapter shall supplement, and shall not supersede, existing law and procedures relating to unlawful discrimination based on gender.
[ 1989 c 341 s 6.]

catchline: Existing law and procedures.


title: RCW 28B.110.070

text:
Institutions of higher education shall distribute copies of the provisions of this chapter to all students.
[ 1989 c 341 s 7.]

catchline: Distribution to students.


title: RCW 28B.112.005

text:
The legislature finds that the issue of campus sexual violence is a serious issue for many students as well as poses a challenge to all of our institutions of higher education. Several high profile cases in recent years garnered national attention, with more than ninety colleges and universities nationwide currently under investigation by the United States department of education's office for civil rights for violation of Title IX relating to how they have handled sexual violence cases.
In 2014, the White House convened a task force designed to protect students from sexual assault. The task force has recommended that schools conduct campus climate assessments and provided a sample memorandum of understanding for institutions to enter into with local law enforcement.
At the same time, the federal government and several states have moved forward to address campus sexual violence policies regarding prevention, investigation, and disciplinary action. These actions include the statewide adoption of policies at the public four-year universities in New York and all schools receiving state financial aid in California. It also includes new requirements included in the federal violence against women act amendments to the Clery act, 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1092(f).
The legislature further finds the state's public two and four-year institutions of higher education are taking steps to improve their institutional policies around campus sexual violence, including being represented at a statewide conference held in October 2014.
In order to complement federal policy and ensure the safety of all our students, the legislature finds it necessary to establish minimum standards for all institutions pertaining to campus sexual violence policies and procedures and encourages institutions of higher education to share with all students and current employees, especially survivors of sexual violence, the protections, resources, and services available to them if they are a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking. Institutions should endeavor to prevent retaliation and prevent the student from having to undergo unnecessary or duplicative retellings of the incident.
[ 2015 c 92 s 1.]


title: RCW 28B.112.010

text:
All institutions of higher education shall refrain from establishing a different disciplinary process on the same campus for a matter of sexual violence, based on the status or characteristics of the student involved in that disciplinary proceeding, including characteristics such as a student's membership on an athletic team, membership in a fraternity or sorority, academic year, or any other characteristics or status of a student.
[ 2015 c 92 s 2.]

catchline: Disciplinary processes.


title: RCW 28B.112.020

text:
(1) Institutions of higher education shall make information available on an annual basis to all current and prospective students and employees regarding the institution's policy and procedures, the responsible employee to receive complaints, and compliance with campus sexual violence confidentiality and reporting requirements set forth in 34 C.F.R. Sec. 668.46(b)(11)(iii).
(2) Institutions of higher education shall make the resources in subsection (1) of this section and other information and support available on a confidential basis to all campus sexual assault survivors, regardless of whether the survivor chooses to proceed with a formal report of sexual assault.
[ 2015 c 92 s 3.]

catchline: Availability of institutions' policies, procedures, and resources.


title: RCW 28B.112.030

text:
(1) Survivor communications with, and records maintained by, campus-affiliated advocates, shall be confidential.
(2) Records maintained by a campus-affiliated advocate are not subject to public inspection and copying and are not subject to inspection or copying by an institution of higher education unless:
(a) The survivor consents to inspection or copying;
(b) There is a clear, imminent risk of serious physical injury or death of the survivor or another person;
(c) Inspection or copying is required by federal law; or
(d) A court of competent jurisdiction mandates that the record be available for inspection or copying.
(3) The definitions in this subsection apply throughout this section and RCW 42.56.240(16) unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(a) "Campus-affiliated advocate" means a "sexual assault advocate" or "domestic violence advocate" as defined in RCW 5.60.060 or a victim advocate, employed by or volunteering for an institution of higher education.
(b) "Survivor" means any student, faculty, staff, or administrator at an institution of higher education that believes they were a victim of a sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking.
[ 2017 c 72 s 2.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2017 c 72: "The legislature finds that the state, along with the federal government and the state's public colleges and universities, plays an important role in protecting college students on and off campus from violence, including sexual assault. This role includes protecting students from repeat offenders and ensuring that survivors can trust that their college or university has education record protocols that prioritize their safety on and off campus.
The legislature commends the final report produced by the task force established by Substitute Senate Bill No. 5719 in 2015. The task force brought together experts across a range of fields to highlight ways in which both institutions of higher education and the state can enact stronger policies around the issue of campus sexual assault. As representatives of our state's public colleges and universities said two years ago, this subject needs to be a high priority for the state and existing state law has gaps that need to be fixed. Therefore, the legislature intends to enact changes based on several recommendations contained within the report to the legislature." [ 2017 c 72 s 1.]

catchline: Campus-affiliated advocates—Confidentiality of records.


title: RCW 28B.112.040

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this section and RCW * 28B.112.050 through 28B.112.080 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Applicant" means a person applying for employment as faculty, instructor, staff, advisor, counselor, coach, athletic department staff, and any position in which the applicant will likely have direct ongoing contact with students in a supervisory role or position of authority. "Applicant" does not include enrolled students who are applying for temporary student employment with the postsecondary educational institutions, unless the student is a graduate student applying for a position in which the graduate student will have a supervisory role or position of authority over other students. "Applicant" does not include a person applying for employment as medical staff or for employment with an affiliated organization, entity, or extension of a postsecondary educational institution, unless the applicant will have a supervisory role or position of authority over students.
(2) "Association" means a scholarly or professional organization or learned society that sponsors activities or events for the benefit of individuals affiliated with postsecondary educational institutions, with a code of conduct forbidding sexual misconduct at such activities or events, and established investigative procedures for allegations that the code of conduct has been violated.
(3) "Employee" means a person who is receiving or has received wages as an employee from the postsecondary educational institutions and includes current and former workers, whether the person is classified as an employee, independent contractor, or consultant, and is in, or had, a position with direct ongoing contact with students in a supervisory role or position of authority. "Employee" does not include a person who was employed by the institution in temporary student employment while the person was an enrolled student unless the student, at the time of employment, is or was a graduate student in a position in which the graduate student has or had a supervisory role or authority over other students. "Employee" does not include a person employed as medical staff or with an affiliated organization, entity, or extension of a postsecondary educational institution, unless the employee has or had a supervisory role or position of authority over students. A person who would be considered an "employee" under this subsection, remains an "employee" even if the person enrolls in classes under an institution's employee tuition waiver program or similar program that allows faculty, staff, or other employees to take classes.
(4) "Employer" includes postsecondary educational institutions in this or any other state.
(5) "Investigation" means a procedure initiated in response to a formal complaint, as defined in 34 C.F.R. Sec. 106.30, provided that the procedure fully complies with the provisions of 34 C.F.R. Sec. 106.45.
(6) "Postsecondary educational institution" means an institution of higher education as defined in RCW 28B.10.016, a degree-granting institution as defined in RCW 28B.85.010, a private vocational school as defined in RCW 28C.10.020, or school as defined in RCW 18.16.020, that participates in the state student financial aid program.
(7) "Sexual misconduct" includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual contact, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, other unwelcome verbal, nonverbal, electronic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, sexual harassment, and any misconduct of a sexual nature that is in violation of the postsecondary educational institution's policies or has been determined to constitute sex discrimination pursuant to state or federal law.
(8) "Student" means a person enrolled at a postsecondary educational institution and for whom educational records are maintained.
(9) "Substantiated findings" means a written determination regarding responsibility as described in 34 C.F.R. Sec. 106.45(b)(7) prepared at the conclusion of an investigation, as amended by any appeals process.
[ 2023 c 79 s 2; 2020 c 335 s 2.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 28B.112.050 expired June 1, 2024.
Intent—2023 c 79: See note following RCW 28B.112.080.
Findings—Intent—2020 c 335: "The legislature recognizes that Washington's postsecondary educational institutions are some of the best schools in the nation, offering high quality education and life experiences for thousands of students. Washington institutions strive to create learning environments where all students can reach their full potential. The legislature also recognizes that in instances in which an employee of an institution engages in sexual misconduct against a student, institutions do not consistently disclose that information. The legislature declares that disclosure of such information is a matter of public safety for all Washington students as well as for students on campuses across the nation. The legislature finds that sexual misconduct, which may include harassment or assault, has serious public health and safety effects on students in Washington. These effects may deprive students of their opportunities to obtain an education which would otherwise improve their lives and health, and that of their own children. Other effects include an employee in a position of power and authority over students causing irreversible harm to the physical and mental health of students from sexual misconduct. The legislature finds that students of any postsecondary educational institution in Washington should be protected from their institution hiring an employee who has been found to have committed sexual misconduct at another postsecondary educational institution. The legislature, therefore, also finds that postsecondary educational institutions in Washington need to know if a prospective employee has been found to have committed sexual misconduct while employed at another institution. Therefore, the legislature intends to require postsecondary educational institutions to inquire about and conduct reference checks on any applicant the institution intends to extend an offer of employment to, regarding whether the applicant has ever been found to have committed, or is being investigated for, sexual misconduct. The legislature finds that nondisclosure agreements which prevent an institution from disclosing that an employee has committed sexual misconduct create a high potential for students in jeopardy of being victimized. Therefore, the legislature finds such nondisclosure agreements between an employee and institution, pursuant to which the institution agrees not to disclose findings of sexual misconduct supported by a preponderance of evidence or not to complete an investigation, are against public policy and should not be entered into by any Washington postsecondary educational institution and should not be enforced by Washington courts. Therefore, the legislature intends to provide clarity and direction to postsecondary educational institutions for disclosing substantiated findings of sexual misconduct committed by its employees against students." [ 2020 c 335 s 1.]

catchline: Sexual misconduct—Definitions.


title: RCW 28B.112.060

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, any provision of a settlement agreement executed subsequent to June 11, 2020, between a postsecondary educational institution and an employee is against public policy and void and unenforceable if the provision prohibits the employee, the institution, a survivor, or any other person from disclosing that the employee has either:
(a) Been the subject of substantiated findings of sexual misconduct; or
(b) Is the subject of an investigation into sexual misconduct that is not yet complete.
(2) A settlement agreement may contain provisions requiring nondisclosure of personal identifying information of persons filing complaints or making allegations and of any witnesses asked to participate in an investigation of the allegations.
(3) Personal identifying information in a settlement agreement that reveals the identity of persons filing complaints or making allegations and of any witnesses asked to participate in an investigation of the allegations is exempt from public disclosure pursuant to RCW 42.56.375.
[ 2020 c 335 s 4.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2020 c 335: See note following RCW 28B.112.040.


title: RCW 28B.112.070

text:
(1) Unless the victim of the alleged sexual misconduct requests otherwise, when a postsecondary educational institution investigates a complaint or allegation of sexual misconduct committed by an employee against a student of the institution, the institution shall complete the investigation whether or not the employee voluntarily or involuntarily leaves employment with the institution. When the institution completes its investigation, the institution shall make written findings of whether the complaint or allegation is substantiated.
(2)(a) A postsecondary educational institution shall include in the employee's personnel file or employment records any substantiated findings of sexual misconduct committed by the employee while the employee was employed with the postsecondary educational institution.
(b) When disclosing records included in an employee's personnel file or employment records under this section, the institution shall keep personal identifying information of the complainant and any witnesses confidential, unless disclosure of identifying information is agreed to by the complainant or witnesses or required under law.
(c) Personal identifying information in an employee's file or employment records that reveals the identity of the complainant and any witnesses is exempt from public disclosure pursuant to RCW 42.56.375.
(3) For purposes of this section, postsecondary educational institutions shall use a preponderance of the evidence standard when determining whether findings are substantiated.
(4) For purposes of this section and RCW 28B.112.080, "substantiated" means the employee has committed sexual misconduct.
[ 2020 c 335 s 5.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2020 c 335: See note following RCW 28B.112.040.


title: RCW 28B.112.080

text:
(1) Beginning October 1, 2020, prior to an official offer of employment to an applicant, a postsecondary educational institution shall request the applicant to sign a statement:
(a) Declaring whether the applicant is the subject of any substantiated findings of sexual misconduct in any current or former employment or by any association with which the applicant has, or has had, a professional relationship, is currently being investigated for, or has left a position during an investigation into, a violation of any sexual misconduct policy at the applicant's current and past employers, and, if so, an explanation of the situation;
(b) Authorizing the applicant's current and past employers or relevant associations to disclose to the hiring institution any sexual misconduct committed by the applicant and making available to the hiring institution copies of all documents in the previous employer's personnel, investigative, or other files relating to sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, by the applicant; and
(c) Releasing the applicant's current and past employers or relevant associations, and employees acting on behalf of that employer or association, from any liability for providing information described in (b) of this subsection.
(2) Beginning July 1, 2021, prior to an official offer of employment to an applicant, a postsecondary educational institution shall:
(a) Request in writing, electronic or otherwise, that the applicant's current and past postsecondary educational institution employers, or relevant associations when a finding has been declared by the applicant, provide the information, if any, described in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The request must include a copy of the declaration and statement signed by the applicant under subsection (1) of this section; and
(b) Ask the applicant if the applicant is the subject of any substantiated findings of sexual misconduct, or is currently being investigated for, or has left a position during an investigation into, a violation of any sexual misconduct policy at the applicant's current and past employers, and, if so, an explanation of the situation.
(3)(a) Pursuant to (c) of this subsection, after receiving a request under subsection (2)(a) of this section, a postsecondary educational institution shall provide the information requested and make available to the requesting institution copies of documents in the applicant's personnel record relating to substantiated findings of sexual misconduct.
(b) Pursuant to (c) of this subsection, if a postsecondary educational institution has information about substantiated findings of a current or former employee's sexual misconduct in the employee's personnel file or employment records, unless otherwise prohibited by law, the institution shall disclose that information to any employer conducting reference or background checks on the current or former employee for the purposes of potential employment, even if the employer conducting the reference or background check does not specifically ask for such information.
(c) If, by June 11, 2020, a postsecondary educational institution does not have existing procedures for disclosing information requested under this subsection, the institution must establish procedures to begin implementing the disclosure requirements of this subsection no later than July 1, 2021.
(4)(a) The postsecondary educational institution or an employee acting on behalf of the institution, who discloses information under this section is presumed to be acting in good faith and is immune from civil and criminal liability for the disclosure.
(b) A postsecondary educational institution is not liable for any cause of action arising from nondisclosure of information by an employee without access to official personnel records who is asked to respond to a reference check.
(c) The duty to disclose information under this section is the responsibility of the postsecondary educational institution to respond to a formal request for personnel records relating to a current or prior employee when requested by another employer.
(5)(a) When disclosing information under this section, the postsecondary educational institution shall keep personal identifying information of the complainant and any witnesses confidential, unless the complainant or witnesses agree to disclosure of their identifying information.
(b) Personal identifying information that reveals the identity of the complainant and any witnesses is exempt from public disclosure pursuant to RCW 42.56.375.
(6) Beginning October 1, 2020, a postsecondary educational institution may not hire an applicant who does not sign the statement described in subsection (1) of this section.
(7) Information received under this section may be used by a postsecondary educational institution only for the purpose of evaluating an applicant's qualifications for employment in the position for which the person has applied.
(8) This section does not restrict expungement from a personnel file or employment records of information about alleged sexual misconduct that has not been substantiated.
(9) Public institutions of higher education shall share best practices with all faculty and staff who are likely to receive reference check requests about how to inform and advise requesters to contact the institution's appropriate official office for personnel records.
(10) The student achievement council shall convene a work group and report to the legislature by November 30, 2024, regarding the ability of institutions of higher education to consider if applicants or current employees have committed sexual misconduct at meetings or conferences of academic and professional associations; and, how institutions of higher education and Washington agencies may encourage adoption of policies and procedures regarding sexual misconduct committed at such association events.
[ 2023 c 79 s 3; 2020 c 335 s 6.]
Notes:
Intent—2023 c 79: "In 2020 the legislature established RCW 28B.112.080 requiring colleges and universities statewide, both public and private, to ask job applicants to declare whether they had been the subject of substantiated findings of sexual misconduct by a current or previous employer, whether they are the subject of current investigations of sexual misconduct by their employer, or whether they resigned employment during an ongoing investigation. It requires postsecondary educational institutions to request documentation of substantiated findings or investigations prior to extending an offer of employment.
In academic settings, sexual misconduct can take place outside the context of employment. For example, an employee of one university might harass a student or employee of a different university in a professional setting such as a conference or meeting. A growing number of scholarly associations sponsoring conferences or other events have adopted codes of conduct and investigative procedures to address the problem of sexual misconduct in these contexts. The legislature intends to expand the declaration required of applicants for employment to include substantiated findings by scholarly associations. Further, the legislature intends to expand the requirement to request documentation to include substantiated findings generated by scholarly associations." [ 2023 c 79 s 1.]
Findings—Intent—2020 c 335: See note following RCW 28B.112.040.

catchline: Sexual misconduct—Offers of employment—Requirements.


title: RCW 28B.112.090

text:
Postsecondary educational institutions may not propose, request, or pressure a student reporting sexual misconduct in a complaint filed with the institution under Title IX or otherwise, with law enforcement, or in a civil court action to enter into a nondisclosure agreement relating to the alleged sexual misconduct by another student or employee of the institution.
[ 2025 c 124 s 1.]


title: RCW 28B.115.010

text:
The legislature finds that changes in demographics, the delivery of health care services, and an escalation in the cost of educating health professionals has resulted in shortages of health professionals. A poor distribution of health care professionals has resulted in a surplus of some professionals in some areas of the state and a shortage of others in other parts of the state, such as in the more rural areas and in behavioral health services. The high cost of health professional education requires that health care practitioners command higher incomes to repay the financial obligations incurred to obtain the required training. Health professional shortage areas are often areas that have troubled economies and lower per capita incomes. These areas often require more services because the health care needs are greater due to poverty or because the areas are difficult to service due to geographic circumstances. The salary potentials for shortage areas are often not as favorable when compared to nonshortage areas and practitioners are unable to serve. The legislature further finds that encouraging health professionals to serve in shortage areas is essential to assure continued access to health care for persons living in these parts of the state.
The legislature also finds that one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness in any given year, but only forty-one percent of adults with a mental health condition received mental health services in 2016, according to the national institute of mental health. The *children's mental health work group found that in 2013, only forty percent of children on medicaid with mental health treatment needs were receiving services. Individuals seeking behavioral health services may have trouble receiving the help they need from health care professionals because behavioral health services are limited due to workforce shortages of behavioral health providers. The legislature further finds that encouraging more health care professionals to practice behavioral health in areas with limited services would benefit the state by creating greater access to behavioral health services and by having more health care professionals experienced in providing behavioral health services.
Therefore, the legislature intends to establish the Washington health corps to encourage more health care professionals to work in underserved areas by providing loan repayment and conditional scholarships in return for completing a service commitment.
[ 2019 c 302 s 1; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 716. Formerly RCW 18.150.010.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The "children's mental health work group" was renamed the "children and youth behavioral health work group" by 2020 c 130 s 1.

catchline: Legislative findings—Intent.