House Bill No. 378, introduced by Representative Wilder, amends the eligibility requirements for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) by lowering the ACT score needed for students who complete approved home study programs. The bill specifically removes the previous requirement that these students must achieve a higher ACT score than their peers who graduate from approved high schools. Under the proposed law, students qualifying for the 2025-2026 award year and beyond will no longer be subject to the higher score requirements, aligning them with the standard minimum ACT scores for various TOPS awards: 17 for TOPS-Tech, 20 for Opportunity, 23 for Performance, and 27 for Honors.

The bill modifies existing law by amending R.S. 17:5029(B)(2) and (3)(a) and (b)(ii) and (iii). Notably, it eliminates the stipulation that home study students must score at least two points higher than the minimum ACT score required for TOPS-Tech or Opportunity Awards and one point higher for Performance or Honors Awards. This change aims to create a more equitable opportunity for students who pursue home study programs, ensuring they have the same initial qualification standards as their traditionally educated counterparts.

Statutes affected:
HB378 Original: 17:5029(B)(2)
HB378 Engrossed: 17:5029(B)(2)