The bill amends the eligibility requirements for military veterans to receive a TOPS-Tech Award under the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students in Louisiana. Specifically, it removes the previous stipulation that these eligibility changes were only effective for the 2020-2023 academic years. Instead, it establishes that any individual honorably discharged from a branch of the United States Armed Forces from a military installation in Louisiana is eligible for the award, provided they meet certain criteria.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for proving eligibility by eliminating the need for a specific ACT or SAT score. Instead, it now requires veterans to provide a copy of their Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, known as DD Form 214, to verify their qualifying military service. This change aims to streamline the process for veterans seeking educational benefits through the TOPS-Tech Award.

Statutes affected:
SB105 Original: 17:5029(E)(1)
SB105 Engrossed: 17:5029(E)(1)
SB105 Enrolled: 17:5029(E)(1)
SB105 Act 355: 17:5029(E)(1)