The bill, H.B. No. 1785, amends the Education Code to expand the eligibility criteria for individuals who wish to take the high school equivalency examination. Specifically, it adds a provision allowing persons who are homeless to take the examination without needing parental or guardian consent. This is a significant change as it aims to remove barriers for homeless individuals seeking to obtain their high school equivalency, thereby promoting educational opportunities for this vulnerable population.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing eligibility requirements by removing the option for individuals to be recommended for the examination by a public agency or court order, while retaining other criteria such as age and enrollment in specific programs. The new provisions will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and the bill will become effective immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 7.111 (Education Code 7)