House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes to amend the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) by allowing students who qualify for a TOPS award upon high school graduation to apply any unused award amounts towards medical or dental school in Louisiana, provided they meet specific criteria. The bill stipulates that eligible students must have completed an academic undergraduate degree at an out-of-state institution and must enroll in a doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathic medicine, or doctor of dentistry program in Louisiana during or after the 2025-2026 academic year.

Additionally, the bill requires these students to sign a promissory note agreeing to repay the awarded amount plus interest upon graduation or exiting the program, with certain exemptions. Students will not be required to repay the amount if they are in a residency program or if they practice full-time in Louisiana for three consecutive years after completing their residency. The Board of Regents is tasked with establishing rules for the collection of unpaid amounts and defining circumstances under which students may be exempt from repayment.