The bill amends section 5919.34 of the Revised Code to update the Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program. It defines key terms such as "academic term," "eligible applicant," and "tuition," and establishes the criteria for eligibility, which includes being a member of the Ohio National Guard and actively enrolled in an educational program. The adjutant general is tasked with approving scholarships for eligible applicants without regard to financial need and must provide a written explanation of potential ineligibility and repayment obligations to scholarship recipients. The bill also outlines the payment structure for scholarships based on the type of educational institution attended and allows for the adoption of rules regarding the use of federal educational financial assistance.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for scholarship recipients who are called into active duty, allowing them to defer repayment of scholarships until their military service is completed or ten years after their enlistment. It specifies that individuals discharged under dishonorable conditions are ineligible for scholarships and establishes a process for the repayment of scholarships if recipients fail to complete their enlistment terms. The bill also mandates regular reporting on the scholarship program's costs and allows for the chancellor and adjutant general to seek additional funding through grants and donations. Existing language in section 5919.34 is repealed to accommodate these changes.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5919.34