This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to improve educational opportunities and services for specific groups, particularly members of the Florida State Guard and individuals who are blind or visually impaired. 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 Division of the State Guard. Additionally, it requires entities providing fee-based services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired to disclose in writing whether similar services are available at no cost, enhancing transparency and consumer protection. The bill also revises administrative processes related to vocational rehabilitation services, including changing the registration process for service providers to an application process and establishing minimum qualifications.

Further provisions include allowing students with a Florida standard high school diploma to opt for assessment and enrollment in developmental education, and ensuring that students demonstrating readiness for college-level courses within two years of achieving required test scores will not need to retest. The bill introduces a fee waiver for out-of-state students with a Florida resident grandparent and modifies eligibility criteria for the Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholars award. It also establishes a new funding model for Florida College System institutions, which must be approved by the Legislature, and adjusts the minimum carry forward balance from 5% to 7% of the state operating budget. These changes aim to enhance financial accountability and improve educational outcomes across Florida's educational institutions, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 7038 Filed: 251.001, 413.208, 1003.437, 1005.06, 1007.25, 1008.44, 1009.26, 1009.30, 1009.536, 1009.893, 1009.983, 1009.986