The bill establishes two new sections in the Florida Statutes: Section 1011.687, which creates an operating categorical fund for the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program, and Section 1011.689, which introduces the Educational Enrollment Stabilization Program. The operating categorical fund will award scholarships based on the number of full-time equivalent students, with funds disbursed quarterly contingent upon compliance with specific requirements. The Educational Enrollment Stabilization Program aims to provide supplemental state funds to address fluctuations in student enrollment, ensuring that school districts maintain a minimum funding level per student. The bill also amends existing statutes to streamline scholarship application processes, enhance verification of student eligibility, and ensure compliance with funding requirements, while repealing outdated provisions related to scholarship accounts.

Additionally, the bill introduces several amendments to existing laws governing scholarship programs, including changes to the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program and the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program. Key provisions include the removal of specific definitions and terms, the establishment of clearer eligibility criteria, and the expansion of authorized uses for scholarship funds. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication between parents and school districts, mandates background screenings for individuals involved in scholarship programs, and outlines new responsibilities for the Department of Education. Overall, the proposed changes aim to enhance the structure, accountability, and funding of educational options for students in Florida, particularly those in need of personalized education.

Statutes affected:
S 7030 pb: 1011.65, 1002.40, 1002.411, 1002.421, 1008.25, 1010.305, 1011.61, 11.45, 212.099, 1002.45