Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5221

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  
Report Pass
2/1/23  
Refer
2/2/23  

Caption

Concerning program administration for the Washington state opportunity scholarship program.

Impact

The passage of SB5221 is expected to positively affect state laws concerning educational funding and student financial aid. By streamlining the administration of scholarship programs, the bill may lead to increased efficiency in fund distribution and potentially higher enrollment rates in critical fields of study. This focus on higher education aims to address workforce shortages and enhance the overall skill set of the state’s labor pool.

Summary

SB5221 focuses on the administration of the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship Program. The bill aims to enhance the management and allocation of scholarship funds to support students pursuing higher education, particularly in high-demand fields. This legislative effort reflects ongoing initiatives to improve access to education and workforce development in Washington by encouraging students to engage in areas that significantly contribute to the state's economy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5221 appears to be supportive among educational institutions and advocacy groups that focus on increasing access to higher education. Supporters emphasize the importance of financial assistance in reducing barriers for students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. However, there may also be concerns among fiscal conservatives regarding the potential long-term costs associated with expanding scholarship programs and maintaining favorable funding levels.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding SB5221 have included debates on the long-term sustainability of funding for the scholarship programs and how funds should be allocated. Some legislators have raised questions regarding the criteria used for scholarship eligibility and the effectiveness of the scholarship in actually improving post-graduation employment outcomes. Ensuring that the initiative adequately meets the needs of students without overextending state resources remains a significant concern.

Companion Bills

WA HB1289

Crossfiled Concerning program administration for the Washington state opportunity scholarship program.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1289

Concerning program administration for the Washington state opportunity scholarship program.

WA HB1587

Encouraging local government partner promise scholarship programs within the opportunity scholarship program.

WA HB1990

Concerning the Washington state aerial imagery program.

WA SB5954

Concerning the Washington state aerial imagery program.

WA HB1946

Creating the Washington health corps behavioral health scholarship program.

WA LB1402

Require the State Treasurer to establish education scholarships and eliminate the Opportunity Scholarships Act

WA SB5222

Concerning the "pick it up, Washington" litter control program.

WA SB5682

Concerning the Washington customized employment training program.

WA HB1883

Concerning the Washington customized employment training program.

WA HB1320

Modifying business and occupation tax rates to fund programs and services to benefit Washingtonians.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.