Senate Bill No. 203 establishes a Reading Education Savings Account Program (RESA) aimed at assisting students in second and third grades who are not reading at grade level. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for students, which includes being enrolled in a Louisiana public school, submitting a timely application, and having a parent sign an agreement to provide education in core subjects while complying with program requirements. The program will be administered by the state Department of Education (DOE), which is tasked with determining eligibility, conducting audits, and managing funds allocated to each account based on the state's average per pupil allocation.

The bill also includes significant amendments, such as the removal of the requirement for students to be tested for learning disabilities as an initial eligibility criterion. Additionally, it mandates that the DOE utilize appropriated funds to design and implement the RESA program, ensuring it encompasses all eligible populations from other education savings account legislation enacted during the 2022 Regular Session. The proposed law emphasizes accountability by requiring participating schools and service providers to meet specific criteria and by establishing a reporting system for program implementation to the legislative committees.

Statutes affected:
SB203 Engrossed: 17:236(A)
SB203 Reengrossed: 17:236(A)
SB203 Enrolled: 17:236(A)