DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 786 Original 2020 Regular Session Garofalo
Abstract: Extends the deadline for submission of ACT or SAT scores in order to qualify for a
TOPS scholarship for students graduating from high school in 2020.
Present law provides for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) as a program of merit
scholarships for students attending certain postsecondary education institutions who meet specific
academic requirements and other qualifications. Provides for administration of the program by the
Bd. of Regents (board). Academic qualifications for TOPS scholarships include minimum ACT or
SAT test scores.
Present law requires the board to adopt guidelines for receipt and consideration of late ACT and SAT
scores for various specific time periods. Requires the board to reduce by one the number of
semesters an applicant who qualifies with a late score pursuant to present law is eligible for the
scholarship.
Proposed law requires the board to adopt guidelines for receipt and consideration, for the 2020-2021
academic year or any part thereof, of an applicant's ACT or SAT score that is obtained after April
2020. Authorizes the board to grant a scholarship based on such late-submitted scores only if the
applicant meets all of the following:
(1)The applicant graduated from high school in 2020.
(2)The applicant was not qualified for any award prior to April 2020.
(3)The applicant obtained the qualifying test score on the first testing date held in La. after April
2020.
Proposed law provides that the number of semesters of eligibility for a TOPS scholarship shall not
be reduced for an applicant who qualifies for a scholarship pursuant to proposed law.
Effective upon signature of governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Amends R.S. 17:5062(C)(4)(d); Adds R.S. 17:5062(C)(4)(e))