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February 15, 2024
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The Washington State Legislature’s “chamber of origin” cutoff was Feb. 13. This was the date for bills originating in the Senate to pass the Senate and House bills to pass the House. At this stage in the session, following the cutoff, the Senate will mostly consider House bills within its Senate committees. Any bills already approved by the Senate are eligible for consideration in House committees. I’m pleased to share that my Senate Bill 5670, related to the state’s Running Start program, was approved by the Senate on Feb. 2 and received a public hearing this morning in the House Education Committee.
 The Senate recently spent multiple days voting on bills approved by its committees. My Senate Bill 5670, allowing students between 10th and 11th grade to earn Running Start credits during their summer term, was unanimously approved by the Senate.
Running Start is a “dual-credit” program
Running Start is a free tuition “dual credit” opportunity for 11th and 12th graders, which was first implemented in Washington in the 1990s. The program allows students to earn tuition-free college credits while in high school. The credits earned count towards a student’s high school and college degree requirements. Students can either participate in Running Start as part-time students, sharing time at their high school and local college, or full-time, dedicating the full school day to their college coursework. This program helps students get a “running start” on college, accumulating credits during their high school years. Generally speaking, state funding for the program follows the students, but support is provided to the high schools to encourage participation in the program.
Senate Bill 5670 approved by Senate
My Senate Bill 5670, first introduced during the 2023 session, would expand Running Start opportunities for high schoolers by allowing students who have completed 10th grade but haven’t yet begun their fall term in 11th grade to earn up to 10 credits during their summer term. The bill took a major step forward on Feb. 2. As amended, the Senate approved the bill unanimously. To view the bill, click here.
As a member of the Senate’s Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee, I worked closely with Committee Chair T’wina Nobles on the bill. I support the Running Start program because some students can complete their AA degrees while earning high school diplomas. This opportunity saves the students money, reduces their likelihood of debt, and advances them closer to earning a four-year degree.
 Thank you to Wenatchee Valley College President Dr. Faimous Harrison for testifying in support of my Senate Bill 5670 on Running Start. The program is a helpful way to connect communities to their community college resources. I wish Wenatchee Valley College students and staff much success!
House Education Committee hearing
My bill received a hearing this morning in the House Education Committee. As a former member, returning to the committee room was fun to advocate for my Senate bill. Wenatchee Valley College President Faimous Harrison testified in support of the bill and its opportunities for students in North Central Washington and beyond. Running Start seniors Ella Crawford (Eastmont) and Anthony Zavala (Cashmere) also testified remotely in support via remote testimony. The bill seeks to make permanent a summer term funded temporarily in the 2023-2025 budget for an expansion of the Running Start program, but it may receive further adjustments in the House.
I strongly support the Running Start program as an option for students and families, especially for students of middle-class families who may not otherwise qualify for financial aid. The program provides a proven way to build credits and put students on a degree path. Unfortunately, a full load of college coursework for high school juniors can shock the system. Allowing students to gradually begin the program during the summer months could help ease them into college and help them experience success. You have to walk before you run, so I’m calling it a “Walking Start to Running Start.”
Senate Bill 5670 – Recent Media
 The Legislature is approaching the final phase of its 60-day session, which is scheduled to end on March 7. In addition to finalizing policy bills, state budget updates will also be approved.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve
My position as State Senator exists to serve you. If you have any questions about the legislative session, please contact me at senatorbradhawkins.org. Please call our Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000 if you need immediate assistance at any time. Be sure to like and follow me on Facebook @SenatorBradHawkins, for my latest updates.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your state senator.
Sincerely,
 Brad Hawkins
State Senator Brad Hawkins
12th Legislative District
Website: senatorbradhawkins.org
P.O. Box 40412 | Olympia, WA 98504-0412
(360) 786-7622 or Toll-free: (800) 562-6000
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