The proposed bill would amend current statutes by establishing the "Dependents of Military Personnel Tuition Scholarship Fund," which would provide tuition scholarships to eligible children or dependents of U.S. Armed Forces members with a disability rating of at least 30%. The Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) would administer this fund, which would consist of legislative appropriations and be continuously appropriated, exempt from lapsing provisions. The bill specifies that ABOR may award scholarships to individuals who meet certain criteria, including residency requirements and enrollment status at Arizona public universities or community colleges.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $15,000,000 from the state General Fund for fiscal year 2027 to support the newly established scholarship fund. It outlines eligibility requirements for applicants, including documentation verification from the Arizona Department of Veterans' Services, and sets limits on the duration of scholarship awards. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that scholarships do not exceed the actual cost of in-state tuition and fees after accounting for other financial aid received.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-1808
House Engrossed Version: 15-1808, 15-1809.03, 15-1401, 15-1809, 38-844, 36-2205