This bill proposes a comprehensive overhaul of the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program by transferring its administration from scholarship organizations to the Department of Education. Key changes include redefining "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" being defined as the state board of education, and delineates the Department's responsibilities in managing the EFA program.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new application processes for EFAs, requiring the Department to develop a standard application form and establish timely approval procedures. Parents must sign an agreement with the Department to ensure compliance with educational standards and proper fund usage. The bill allows for the rollover of unused EFA funds with specific limits and mandates the Department to maintain a list of education service providers while ensuring transparency in fund usage. It also establishes a Parent and Education Service Provider Advisory Commission, outlines auditing procedures, and prohibits discrimination against education providers based on religious affiliation. The Department of Education is projected to incur up to $5 million in annual administrative costs to manage the program effectively, with the bill set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

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