The bill amends several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes to establish the Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (LA GATOR) Scholarship Program, which will provide state funding for educational options through scholarship accounts that parents can set up for their children. It outlines eligibility criteria for students, schools, and service providers, and mandates the state Department of Education to administer the program and submit annual reports to the legislature on its effectiveness. The bill also terminates the existing Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program effective June 30, 2025, transitioning to the new LA GATOR Scholarship Program, which includes provisions for student testing and eligibility for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new framework for managing educational account funds, requiring quarterly allocations based on determinations by the state board and allowing for partial tuition payments prior to the school year. It establishes strict guidelines for fund usage, eligibility criteria for students and schools, and mandates annual assessments of participating students. Notably, it allows nonpublic schools from the previous program to transition into the new program without additional applications. The bill also includes provisions for the Department of Education to enter into contracts for program management and repeals several existing laws related to the program, with effective dates contingent upon legislative appropriations and the governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
SB313 Original: 17:236(A)
SB313 Engrossed: 17:236(A), 17:3996(B)
SB313 Reengrossed:
SB313 Re-Reengrossed: 17:236(A)
SB313 Enrolled: 17:236(A)
SB313 Act : 17:236(A)