The bill modifies the existing education savings accounts program in Wyoming, renaming it the "Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Act" and establishing the Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Program Account. Key changes include an increase in the maximum scholarship award from $6,000 to $7,000 for eligible students, as well as adjustments to the distribution of state funds. The bill specifies that 52.8% of certain revenues will be allocated to the public school foundation program account, while 47.2% will be directed to the newly created Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Program Account. Additionally, the bill repeals certain provisions and makes conforming amendments to existing laws.

Eligibility requirements for the scholarship program are also modified, allowing any child who is a Wyoming resident and has not graduated from high school to receive an ESA, provided they meet specific criteria. The bill introduces new provisions for the administration of the program, including the establishment of a certification process for education service providers and the ability for parents to appeal decisions regarding ESA eligibility. Furthermore, it includes appropriations of $30 million from the general fund to support the Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Program Account, with the act taking effect immediately upon completion of necessary legislative procedures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9-4-601, 21-2-902, 21-2-904, 21-2-907
Engrossed: 9-4-601, 21-2-902, 21-2-904