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 485 Original 2023 Regular Session Brass
Abstract: Creates the La. National Guard Patriot Scholarship Program to cover mandatory fees for
members attending public postsecondary education institutions.
Present law (R.S. 29:36.1) provides for a tuition exemption program for members of the La. National
Guard (LNG). Proposed law additionally creates and provides for the La. National Guard Patriot
Scholarship Program to cover mandatory fees for members who meet the following criteria:
(1)In good standing with the LNG.
(2)Enrolled in a La. public postsecondary education institution.
(3)Eligible for the aforementioned present law tuition exemption.
Proposed law:
(1)Provides a scholarship duration of four academic years or until receipt of a baccalaureate
degree, whichever occurs first; however, extends the duration for anyone mobilized or called
to active duty.
(2)Provides for administration by the Bd. of Regents, which shall adopt program rules in
consultation with the LNG.
(3)Requires the Bd. Regents, upon notice from the institution and the LNG that the student
qualifies for the scholarship for the ensuing academic period, to make payment of the
scholarship funds directly to the institution where the mandatory fees are due, subject to the
appropriation of funds for this purpose.
(Adds R.S. 17:4101-4103)