The bill aims to expand access to approved dual enrollment courses for high school students across all local education agencies in Alabama. It mandates that local education agencies allow students, upon request from a parent or guardian, to enroll in dual enrollment courses offered by local community colleges and universities that have been approved for dual credit by the State Department of Education. The bill also stipulates that local education agencies must recognize and award high school credit to students who successfully complete these courses. Additionally, it clarifies that while local education agencies are not required to incorporate these courses into their standard curriculum, they must work collaboratively with local colleges and universities to facilitate student enrollment.

To ensure proper course selection, the bill requires students to meet with designated counselors or career coaches to evaluate their choices based on their college and career interests. Furthermore, both the local education agency and the college or university must agree in writing on the selected courses before registration occurs. Importantly, the bill states that local education agencies will not be financially responsible for any costs associated with dual enrollment unless otherwise specified by law or agreement. The act is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and includes new provisions for the implementation of these guidelines by the State Department of Education in collaboration with the Alabama Community College System and universities.