This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to limit the use of state funding under the Hope Scholarship Program specifically for out-of-state private schools and providers. The key changes include the insertion of the requirement that educational service providers and participating schools must be located in West Virginia. This means that funds from Hope Scholarship accounts can only be used for educational goods and services provided by in-state entities, thereby preventing the allocation of state funds for out-of-state educational expenses.

The bill also clarifies the definitions related to the Hope Scholarship Program, ensuring that only eligible recipients who are residents of West Virginia and enrolled in local public schools can access these funds. The intent of the legislation is to keep state education funding within the state, thereby supporting local educational institutions and services. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the focus of the Hope Scholarship Program on in-state educational opportunities for students.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-31-2