This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance educational opportunities and support for specific groups, including active members of the Florida State Guard and students in vocational rehabilitation programs. It mandates that Florida College System institutions and state universities waive tuition and fees for active members of the Florida State Guard for up to six credit hours per term, contingent upon approval by the director of the Division of the State Guard. Additionally, it requires entities providing fee-based services to disclose whether similar services are available at no cost and establishes a framework for the approval and oversight of vocational rehabilitation service providers. The bill also revises eligibility criteria for educational programs, prohibits the admission of non-U.S. citizens, and updates definitions and conditions for tuition waivers for homeless students.

Furthermore, the bill introduces significant changes to state financial aid awards, requiring students to demonstrate United States citizenship or lawful presence to be eligible for financial aid. It establishes academic performance criteria for the Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars and CAPE Scholars awards, including a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.0 and 2.5, respectively. The bill also increases the minimum carry forward balance for Florida College System institutions from 5 to 7 percent of the state operating budget and outlines eligibility criteria for the Open Door Grant Program. These amendments aim to improve educational access, equity, and financial management within Florida's higher education system, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1052 Filed: 251.001, 413.208, 1004.06, 1004.93, 1004.933, 1005.06, 1006.71, 1007.25, 1008.44, 1008.47, 1009.25, 1009.26, 1009.40, 1009.895