This bill amends the current law regarding the use of education freedom account (EFA) funds by explicitly prohibiting their use at religious schools or for religious education and training. The bill introduces new language stating that EFA funds may only be used for educational purposes in accordance with existing regulations, and it specifies that these funds cannot be utilized for any religious-related educational activities. Additionally, the bill amends the definition of eligible institutions to include only accredited institutions of higher education.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several provisions related to the independence of education service providers within the EFA program, as well as legal proceedings concerning these providers. Specifically, it removes sections that disadvantage education providers with religiously-based policies and practices, along with provisions that outline the independence of these providers. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025. The fiscal impact of the bill is currently indeterminable, as the Department of Education has not yet provided complete information regarding potential changes in expenditures related to the EFA program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 194-F:2