House Bill No. by Representative Butler proposes the establishment of the Education Scholarship Account (ESA) Program, designed to provide state funding for students with exceptionalities who are not enrolled in public schools. The bill amends R.S. 17:236(A) and enacts Chapter 43-C of Title 17 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, detailing eligibility criteria for students, schools, and service providers. The Louisiana Department of Education (DOE) will administer the program, which includes requirements for annual reports to the legislature on implementation and outcomes. The ESA will provide state funds equivalent to the base per-pupil amount plus additional funding for special education, with strict guidelines on how these funds can be used.

The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria for students, including those in kindergarten or those who were previously enrolled in a Louisiana public school and require special education services. Parents must apply and agree to conditions such as not enrolling their child in public school while participating in the program. Schools and service providers must meet criteria approved by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to participate. The program is set to begin enrolling students by the 2025-2026 school year and will allow for various educational formats, including in-person, virtual, or hybrid education. The DOE will also develop testing processes and reporting requirements, including a parental satisfaction survey, to assess the program's effectiveness. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
HB66 Original: 17:236(A)