Washington Senate Passes Bill to Boost Financial Aid for Private College Students

The measure would increase tuition scholarships for students attending private universities in the state.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Washington state Senate has passed a bill that would restore funding to the Washington College Grant and College Bound Scholarship programs specifically for students attending private colleges and universities. The bill, sponsored by Sen. T'wina Nobles, would increase the maximum tuition award for private university students from 50% to 90% of the average award for public university students.

Why it matters

This bill aims to provide more financial aid support for students choosing to attend private colleges and universities in Washington state, helping to make higher education more accessible and affordable. The previous cuts to private school tuition awards had raised concerns about fairness and limiting student options.

The details

Senate Bill 5828 would reverse the effects of last year's Senate Bill 5785, which decreased the state's contribution for private university tuition scholarships while leaving public school funding alone. The new bill would increase the maximum tuition award for private university students from around $6,500 (50% of the public university average) back up to around $9,700 (90% of the public university average).

  • The Washington state Senate passed the bill on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The measure will now move to the state House for consideration.

The players

T'wina Nobles

A Democratic state senator from Fircrest, Washington who sponsored Senate Bill 5828.

June Robinson

A Democratic state senator from Everett, Washington who sponsored the previous bill that cut tuition awards for private university students.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.