House Bill No. HLS 24RS-389 establishes the Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (LA GATOR) Scholarship Program, a universal school choice initiative designed to provide state funding for various educational options for K-12 students. The bill introduces new provisions and amends existing laws, including the creation of a new chapter in the Louisiana Revised Statutes that details the program's administration, eligibility criteria for students, schools, and service providers, and the management of scholarship funds. Notably, the bill terminates the existing Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program (SSEEP) effective June 30, 2025, transitioning participants to the new LA GATOR program.

Key features of the LA GATOR program include the establishment of education scholarship accounts for eligible students, oversight by the Louisiana Department of Education, and specific requirements for participating schools and service providers. The bill outlines eligibility criteria for students, including parental agreement to provide education in core subjects and the use of funds solely for qualified educational expenses. It also includes provisions for students with exceptionalities, ensuring they receive appropriate services. Additionally, the legislation modifies eligibility for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) to include LA GATOR participants who do not graduate from a Louisiana public or approved nonpublic school. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature, with certain provisions contingent upon legislative appropriations.

Statutes affected:
HB745 Original: 17:236(A)
HB745 Engrossed: 17:236(A)
HB745 Reengrossed: 17:236(A)