House Bill No. [insert number] amends the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) by revising the eligibility criteria for the TOPS-Tech award. The bill introduces new provisions that allow students to qualify for the award based on the attainment of early college credits, specifically through academic or technical dual enrollment courses. To qualify, students must meet at least two of the following criteria: a minimum grade point average, a minimum ACT score, or successful completion of at least nine credit hours of early college credit. These changes will apply to students graduating from high school during or after the 2026-2027 academic year.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for maintaining eligibility for the TOPS-Tech award. Starting with the 2026-2027 academic year, students will be allowed to enroll either part-time or full-time while still needing to meet academic progress and GPA requirements. The bill also stipulates that payments for part-time students will only be made from remaining funds appropriated for TOPS awards. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB325 Reengrossed:
HB325 Enrolled: