House Bill No. 448 amends existing Louisiana law regarding scholarships for firefighters and police officers who are injured in the line of duty, as well as their spouses. The bill allows these scholarships to be used for any postgraduate degree, expanding the previous limitation that restricted the use of scholarships to only one bachelor's degree. The amendments also ensure that scholarship recipients must meet all entrance requirements for their chosen college or university and maintain a "C" average each semester to continue receiving the benefits.
Additionally, the bill maintains the provision that scholarship recipients are exempt from paying tuition, fees, and other charges, including room and board, while also receiving a cash grant of $250 per semester for books. The changes aim to provide greater educational opportunities for those affected by injuries sustained in the line of duty, thereby supporting their continued professional and personal development.
Statutes affected: HB448 Original: 17:2(A)
HB448 Engrossed: 17:2(A)
HB448 Reengrossed: 17:2(A)