This bill, HB 1820-FN, proposes a comprehensive restructuring of the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program by shifting oversight from scholarship organizations to the Department of Education. Key changes include defining "Commissioner" as the head of the Department of Education and replacing "scholarship organization" with "department" in relation to fund allocation for qualifying education expenses. The bill also repeals and reenacts certain definitions, such as the "State board" as the state board of education, and delineates the Department's responsibilities in managing the EFA program. Additionally, it introduces new provisions for a standardized application process, requiring parents to sign compliance agreements and allowing unused EFA funds to roll over with specific limits.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a Parent and Education Service Provider Advisory Commission to provide recommendations for the EFA program and outlines conditions for the Department's continued deposits into EFAs, including conducting audits and determining eligibility based on fund misuse. It also includes provisions for barring education service providers from receiving payments if they misrepresent information or fail to deliver services. The bill emphasizes the need for fair eligibility processes and rigorous oversight of EFA funds, with the Department responsible for creating rules for fraud reporting. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, pending a fiscal note from the Department of Education to evaluate the financial implications of these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 194-F:1, 194-F:2, 194-F:5, 194-F:6, 194-F:9
HB1820 text: 194-F:1, 194-F:2, 194-F:5, 194-F:6, 194-F:9