The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance educational equity and access within public schools and Florida College System institutions. It introduces provisions for tuition waivers for active members of the Florida State Guard, expands the college reach-out program to include all low-income and underrepresented students, and renames Hillsborough Community College to Hillsborough State College. Additionally, the bill revises the Florida Educational Equity Act to the Florida Educational Equality Act, emphasizing strategies to increase participation among underrepresented students in traditionally underrepresented programs, such as STEM fields. The Office of Equal Educational Opportunity will oversee compliance and monitor the effectiveness of these strategies.

Moreover, the bill modifies existing definitions and requirements, including the eligibility criteria for the Graduation Alternative to Traditional Education (GATE) Program and the Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholars award. It establishes new provisions for grant funding aimed at enhancing student participation in the GATE Program for institutions serving rural areas, while also removing previous requirements for teacher training related to advanced courses. The bill eliminates the option for local governments to set aside funds for contracts with minority business enterprises and modifies the responsibilities of the State Board of Education and the Board of Governors regarding course development. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1624 Filed: 251.001, 381.853, 446.032, 446.041, 1000.21, 1001.706, 1001.7065, 1004.0971, 1007.35, 1009.23, 1009.26, 1009.536, 1013.46, 1007.27