The bill amends the Alabama Code to modify the eligibility criteria for the ReEngage Alabama Grant Program, specifically by lowering the minimum age for adult learners from 25 to 22 years. This change is reflected in the definitions section, where "ADULT LEARNER" is updated to state that an individual must be 22 years of age or older. Additionally, the definition of "ELIGIBLE STUDENT" is expanded to include individuals pursuing their first baccalaureate degree after a two-year stop-out period following the completion of their first associate degree, provided they have not previously received a grant award.
Furthermore, the bill outlines the grant award structure, allowing for payments of up to $3,000 for universities and $1,500 for community colleges per academic semester for full-time students. It specifies that grants are renewable as long as the student remains continuously enrolled and meets eligibility requirements. The bill also emphasizes the importance of informing students about other available federal and state educational benefits. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.