House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes amendments to the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) by enacting R.S. 17:5004, which establishes repayment requirements for certain award recipients under specific circumstances. According to the new provisions, students who receive Opportunity, Performance, Honors, or Excellence awards must repay the amount awarded for their first academic year if their award is canceled due to failure to maintain eligibility, resignation from the institution, or failure to complete a baccalaureate degree by the end of their fifth academic year. The bill also clarifies that awards will not be paid for more than eight semesters unless an extension is granted.

However, the bill provides exemptions from the repayment requirement for students who enroll in eligible programs at institutions managed by the Board of Supervisors of Community and Technical Colleges, provided they meet certain criteria, such as enrolling within twelve months of leaving a baccalaureate institution and completing the program within thirty-six months. The Board of Regents is tasked with creating rules for implementation, including circumstances for additional exemptions and partial repayment options. Additionally, the Board is required to submit an annual report detailing the outcomes of award recipients who do not complete their degrees, including enrollment in community or technical colleges and workforce outcomes. The provisions of this bill will apply to students graduating high school during or after the 2025-2026 school year.