This bill amends the existing law regarding Military Dependents Scholarships to expand eligibility to students enrolled in approved career and technical education programs. It also includes dependents of military members who served in the recent operations, specifically Operation Freedoms Sentinel and Operation Inherent Resolve. The amendments update the board of trustees' composition to ensure that at least five public members have been directly affected by the specified military operations, and it allows the board to award scholarships for both undergraduate studies and career and technical education programs.

Additionally, the bill increases the eligibility period for a Military Dependents Scholarship from 15 years to 21 years for spouses or other eligible dependents of military personnel who have died, are missing in action, or are permanently disabled due to their service. This change aims to provide more extended support to those affected by military service, reflecting the evolving nature of military engagements and the need for educational assistance for dependents. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:71B-100, 18A:71B-101, 18A:71B-102