(1) The department shall, if funds are appropriated for the specific purpose, implement postsecondary education degree programs within state correctional institutions, including the state correctional institution with the largest population of female inmates. The department shall consider for inclusion in any postsecondary education degree program, any postsecondary education degree program from an accredited community college, college, or university that is part of an associate of arts, baccalaureate, masters of arts, or other graduate degree program.

     (2) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, inmates shall be required to pay the costs for participation in any postsecondary education degree programs established under this subsection [section], including books, fees, tuition, or any other appropriate ancillary costs, by one or more of the following means:

     (a) The inmate who is participating in the postsecondary education degree program shall, during confinement, provide the required payment or payments to the department; or

     (b) A third party shall provide the required payment or payments directly to the department on behalf of an inmate, and such payments shall not be subject to any of the deductions as provided in this chapter.

     (3) The department may accept any and all donations and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services from any third party, including but not limited to nonprofit entities, and may receive, utilize, and dispose of same to provide postsecondary education to inmates.

     (4) Any funds collected by the department under this section and *RCW 72.09.450(4) shall be used solely for the creation, maintenance, or expansion of inmate postsecondary education degree programs.

[2007 c 483 § 403.]

NOTES:

     *Reviser's note: The reference to RCW 72.09.450(4) appears to be a reference to an amendment to that section contained in an early version of ESSB 6157. RCW 72.09.450 was not amended in the final version of ESSB 6157, as amended by the house.

     Findings -- Intent -- 2007 c 483: See note following RCW 72.09.460.

     Findings -- Part headings not law -- Severability -- 2007 c 483: See RCW 72.78.005, 72.78.900, and 72.78.901.