House Bill No. HLS 24RS-389 establishes the Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (LA GATOR) Scholarship Program, a universal school choice initiative designed to provide state funding for various educational options for K-12 students. The bill introduces new provisions and amends existing laws, including the creation of a new chapter in the Louisiana Revised Statutes that details the program's administration, eligibility criteria for students, schools, and service providers, and the management of scholarship funds. Notably, it repeals the existing Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program, which will cease operations by June 30, 2025, allowing participants to transition to the new LA GATOR program.

Key features of the LA GATOR program include the establishment of education scholarship accounts for eligible students, with strict guidelines on the use of funds for qualified educational expenses. The bill outlines specific eligibility requirements for students, including parental agreements to provide education in core subjects and the prohibition of refunds or sharing of account funds with parents or students. Additionally, it sets forth criteria for schools and service providers wishing to participate, ensuring compliance with state standards. The legislation mandates annual reporting on the program's implementation and includes transitional provisions for schools currently involved in the previous scholarship program, streamlining the process for future educational funding initiatives.

Statutes affected:
HB745 Original: 17:236(A)
HB745 Engrossed: 17:236(A)
HB745 Reengrossed: 17:236(A)