The proposed bill establishes the Alabama Law Enforcement Officers' Family Scholarship Program, which aims to provide financial assistance for tuition to dependents of qualifying law enforcement officers attending higher education institutions in Alabama. New legal language is introduced under Article 11, commencing with Section 36-21-220, defining key terms such as "eligible dependent," "qualifying law enforcement officer," and "participating institution." The scholarship will cover educational expenses for up to eight semesters or 12 quarters, with a maximum of $3,000 per academic period, contingent upon an annual appropriation not exceeding $10 million. Eligibility criteria include being a natural or adopted child under 27 years of age or the current or surviving spouse of a qualifying officer, with an application process requiring documentation from the institution and proof of relationship.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Alabama Law Enforcement Officers' Family Scholarship Fund within the State Treasury, allowing for the deposit of funds from various sources, including public and private donations. The commission overseeing the fund is authorized to accept additional funding and must prioritize expenditures for the scholarship program each fiscal year. The bill also introduces a provision for personalized blackout license plates, with a $50 annual fee, to help fund the scholarship. The fee distribution includes a 2.5% commission, manufacturing costs, and administrative costs, with remaining funds directed to the scholarship fund. The blackout plates will feature a black background with white text and will be available starting January 1, 2026, with the bill taking effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Engrossed: 36-21-220, 36-21-220, 36-21-221, 36-21-222, 36-21-223, 36-21-224, 36-11-223, 36-11-222, 36-11-222, 36-21-225, 36-21-226, 36-21-227, 41-4-80, 41-4-96, 41-19-1, 41-19-12