House Bill No. 325 proposes revisions to the academic eligibility requirements for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS-Tech) award in Louisiana. The bill introduces a new provision that allows students to qualify for the award by meeting at least two of three criteria: achieving a minimum grade point average on the core curriculum, obtaining a minimum ACT score, or successfully completing at least nine credit hours of early college credit through dual enrollment courses or other approved skills and learning measures. This change aims to expand access to the TOPS-Tech award by recognizing early college achievements alongside traditional academic metrics.

The new eligibility criteria will apply to students graduating from high school during or after the 2026-2027 academic year. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action if not signed. The amendments adopted by the House Committee on Education clarify that the eligibility pertains specifically to high school graduates rather than first-time college freshmen, ensuring that the focus remains on high school academic performance and early college credit attainment.