This bill mandates the establishment of a program by the State Board of Education to cover the fees for high school equivalency exams for low-income individuals within six months of the bill's effective date. A low-income individual is defined as someone residing in a household with an income at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. The program will limit payments to one exam per individual and will specify the application process and required documentation for income verification.

Additionally, the bill amends the Workforce Development Partnership Fund to allocate 5% of its revenues to cover the costs associated with the high school equivalency exam fees. This funding will be used specifically for the purpose of paying for adult education assessment exams, as well as potentially for other related purposes as determined by the commissioner. The bill aims to enhance access to education for low-income individuals, thereby supporting their opportunities for obtaining a high school diploma.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:15D-9