This bill amends existing legislation to extend grade options to dependents of service members enrolled in public institutions of higher education who are unable to complete a course due to unplanned military obligations. The bill clarifies that both service members and their dependents are entitled to specific grade options based on the percentage of the course completed. If a service member or dependent has completed at least 55 percent of the course, they may choose to receive a letter grade, a pass or fail grade, a temporary grade, or transfer to an equivalent online section of the course, subject to faculty approval. If they have completed less than 55 percent, their options are limited to receiving an incomplete grade or withdrawing from the course, with the added option of transferring to an online section.

Additionally, the bill specifies that a grade of pass or fail can be converted to a letter grade within one year of returning to the institution, provided the service member or dependent completes the necessary coursework. The definitions of "service member" and "dependent" are also clarified, ensuring that dependents are recognized as the children or spouses of service members. Overall, the bill aims to provide greater flexibility and support for service members and their families in managing their educational commitments amidst military obligations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:62-4.2