Committee authorizes RFP to study whether GET can meet Islamic (Sharia) investment principles

The WA529 committee authorized staff to issue a request for proposals to assess whether the GET prepaid‑tuition program could be considered consistent with Islamic (Sharia) investment principles. Luke Minor, senior director for postsecondary affordability, summarized the background: the committee had received an inquiry about halal or Sharia‑compliant investment options, staff issued an RFI and received three responses, and staff now recommend a consultant-led analysis of GET's legal structure, operations and investment characteristics.

"So the only request for a specialized investment option that we have on the table is from a group specifically interested in exploring, you know, halal or Sharia compliant investments," Minor said. Staff estimated the consultant engagement could take 4–6 months depending on proposals. The committee voted to allow staff to post the RFP, proceed with procurement steps, and return an update at the committee's December meeting.