Senate Bill No. 105, introduced by Senator Cathey, amends the eligibility requirements for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) specifically for military veterans seeking a TOPS-Tech Award. The bill removes the previous stipulation that the eligibility was limited to the academic years of 2020-2021, 2021-2022, and 2022-2023, thereby extending eligibility indefinitely for honorably discharged veterans from military installations in Louisiana.

Additionally, the bill eliminates the requirement for veterans to achieve a minimum score of 17 on the ACT or its equivalent on the SAT, as well as the requirement for a silver level score on the ACT WorkKeys system. Instead, it mandates that individuals 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 simplify the process for veterans to access educational benefits under the TOPS program, effective August 1, 2026.

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