Governor signs ‘Walking Start to Running Start’ bill

OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee signed Sen. Brad Hawkins’ bill to expand the Running Start program on Monday.

Senate Bill 5670 to expand Running Start opportunities is a multi-year effort that was first introduced during the 2023 session and passed this year, according to a news release from Hawkins.

The running start program is a free tuition dual credit opportunity for 11th and 12th graders, allowing the students to earn college credits while in high school.

The program allows students to complete their AA degrees while earning high school diplomas. By taking advantage of this option students can save money, lower their risk of debt and get closer to obtaining a four-year degree.

According to the news release, Senate Bill 5670 allows 10th and 11th-grade students to earn 10 college credits during their summer term in-person or online, as an introduction to the Running Start program.

“I’m so grateful the bill was signed into law today. It’s been a two-year effort with lots of heavy lifting along the way,” Hawkins said. “I feel a huge sense of accomplishment and relief to get the bill across the finish line.”