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Bill

HB 1657

Establishing the Washington 13 free guarantee.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Barkis and 5 co-sponsors

HB 1657 proposes a Washington state free tuition guarantee program to reduce college costs and increase higher education access, though funding and eligibility details remain under legislative review.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1657

Legislative bill overview

HB 1657 establishes the "Washington 13 free guarantee," a program designed to make higher education more affordable for Washington state residents. The bill would provide tuition assistance or free college access through a structured guarantee program, likely targeting students attending one of Washington's public universities or community colleges.

Why is this important

College affordability remains a significant barrier to higher education access, with student debt reaching crisis levels nationally. This bill addresses that barrier by potentially removing or reducing tuition costs, which could increase enrollment among lower and middle-income students and reduce long-term economic burdens on graduates entering the workforce.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism unclear: The bill's recent actions show only early-stage review with no substantive votes; the specific funding source (state appropriations, bonds, fees, federal matching) remains undefined and will likely generate debate
  • Eligibility and scope ambiguity: The term "Washington 13" is unexplained in available materials—it could refer to 13 institutions, 13 specific programs, or eligibility criteria, creating uncertainty about who benefits and how broadly the program extends
  • Implementation costs and sustainability: Free tuition guarantees require substantial ongoing funding; questions will arise about long-term budgetary impacts, whether this displaces other education funding, and whether the program is fiscally sustainable across economic cycles

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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