Executive Summary
Ensuring student privay concerning applications for state financial aid
Background
State Financial Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the federal form used by students to determine eligibility for federal and state financial aid for postsecondary education. The Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) is an alternative application for students who cannot or choose not to complete the FAFSA but may still qualify for state financial aid, such as the Washington College Grant, the College Bound Scholarship, and other state or institutional financial aid programs. Currently, Washington retains student data submitted through the WASFA indefinitely.Public Records
The Public Records Act (PRA) requires state and local agencies to provide public records unless the records are exempt under the PRA or another law that bars their release. Agencies may decide whether to disclose records on a case‑by‑case basis, as long as those decisions follow state law
Summary
- Any personally identifying or financial information related to the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) is exempt from public inspection and copying under the Public Records Act.
- Absent a court order, state agencies are prohibited from disclosing such information to any other entity, including the federal government.
- The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) may share WASFA information with other entities for the purpose of supporting or facilitating student enrollment, provided there is a binding data‑sharing agreement.
- WSAC must delete WASFA applicant records within one year after the end of the award year, except when an audit, appeal, or law requires retention.
- WSAC and colleges may not share or copy WASFA information with anyone else, including the federal government, unless the law or a court order requires it.
Key Points
Colleges often keep students’ personal and financial information from state financial aid applications longer than needed. This bill limits how long that information can be kept to better protect students’ privacy. Sharing sensitive information can be a barrier for some students—especially in immigrant communities—who may worry about how their data is used. By setting clear limits, the bill helps ensure student data is not misused and reassures students that Washington is a safe place to pursue higher education.
Ways to Get Involved
Steps to Get Started
- Learn where the bill is in the legislative process.
- If there is an upcoming hearing, decide how you would like to get your voice heard and take action.
- If there is not an upcoming hearing, or if you want to supplement your advocacy, call or write your legislators.
- Spread the word and get other people on board.
Participating in a Hearing
Sign in Pro, Con, or Other
This is when individuals, advocates, and organizations make their position on a particular bill known for the record. This is particularly powerful in large numbers. Many organizations will send out Action Alerts asking people to sign in Pro or Con on a bill.
Submit Written Testimony
Submitting written testimony is a great way not only to make your position known to legislators but also to explain why in more detail. This is a good option if you don’t want to speak in front of others. People also like to offer more nuance to their position by writing.
Testify Virtually
Since COVID, many legislators are allowing remote/virtual testimony for bill hearings, as it greatly expands access to the legislative process across the state. For this, individuals usually have between 1-2 minutes to state their opinion on a bill in front of the legislative committee on Zoom.