House Bill No. 63, introduced by Representative Butler, seeks to create the Education Scholarship Account Program, which will provide state funding for students with exceptionalities who are not enrolled in public schools. The bill amends existing law and establishes a new chapter in the Louisiana Revised Statutes, detailing eligibility criteria for students, schools, and service providers, as well as the administration of the program by the Louisiana Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Key provisions include the establishment of accounts for participating students, allocation of funds based on the state's per-pupil amount, and requirements for annual reporting to the legislature on the program's implementation.

Significantly, the bill removes household income as a criterion for student eligibility and allows for a hybrid approach to education, combining in-person and virtual learning. It also mandates annual testing for participating students and requires the Department of Education to report on various aspects of the program, including parental satisfaction and financial data. Amendments made during the legislative process include changing the program's start date to the 2024-2025 school year and expanding the definition of "qualified education expenses." The legislation emphasizes the independence of participating schools and service providers while ensuring compliance with federal nondiscrimination requirements and other standards set by BESE.

Statutes affected:
HB9 Original: 17:236(A)
HB9 Engrossed: 17:236(A)
HB9 Reengrossed: 17:236(A)