This bill amends the existing law regarding education freedom accounts (EFAs) by expanding eligibility and modifying application processes. Notably, it removes the household income threshold that previously limited eligible students to those whose annual household income was less than or equal to 350 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions, such as "priority guidelines," which prioritize current EFA students and their siblings, children with disabilities, and those from lower-income families. The enrollment process is also streamlined, allowing for rolling applications rather than being restricted to specific semesters.

Furthermore, the bill establishes an enrollment cap of 10,000 students for the 2025-2026 school year, with provisions for increasing this cap by 25 percent in subsequent years if prior year enrollments exceed 90 percent of the cap. It also emphasizes that priority guideline students will not be subject to this cap and will be enrolled on a rolling basis. The bill repeals certain definitions and eligibility criteria related to EFAs, ensuring a more inclusive and accessible framework for students seeking educational opportunities. The effective date for certain sections of the bill is contingent upon the Department of Education's certification regarding enrollment cap compliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 194-F:1
As Amended by the Senate: 194-F:1, 194-F:3, 194-F:4
As Amended by the House: 194-F:1, 194-F:3, 194-F:4
As Amended by the House (2nd): 194-F:1, 194-F:3
Version adopted by both bodies: 194-F:1, 194-F:3
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 194-F:1, 194-F:3