Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB977

Introduced
3/10/14  
Introduced
3/10/14  
Refer
3/10/14  

Caption

Provides relative to eligibility for Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS)

Impact

The bill's revised eligibility criteria are intended to raise the bar for academic excellence among students seeking financial support through the TOPS program. These adjustments may lead to fewer students qualifying for the scholarships, which could alter the landscape of higher education funding in the state. The proposed amendments reflect a larger focus on academic achievement and align with efforts to support students who are better prepared for academic success in college settings.

Summary

House Bill 977, proposed by Representative Katrina Jackson, aims to amend the eligibility requirements for the Louisiana Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS). The changes seek to modify the existing academic thresholds needed for students to qualify for TOPS scholarships, which provide financial assistance for students attending public colleges and universities in Louisiana. By raising the minimum cumulative grade point average from 2.50 to 3.00 and adjusting the composite ACT score requirements, this bill targets to increase the academic performance standards within the program.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 977 has been mixed. Proponents argue that the changes will ensure that only the most academically qualified students receive financial support, thereby fostering a culture of excellence and accountability in education. However, opponents raise concerns that the new standards could disproportionately affect students from underrepresented backgrounds who may struggle to meet these heightened requirements. This tension reflects a broader debate about access to education versus the need for rigorous academic standards.

Contention

A notable point of contention in discussions about HB 977 is the potential impact on lower-income students and those from disadvantaged educational backgrounds. Critics express that the increased GPA and ACT score requirements may eliminate financial aid opportunities for a significant number of deserving students, thus exacerbating existing inequalities in access to higher education. This ongoing discourse highlights the complexity of balancing academic standards with equitable access to educational resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB1153

Provides relative to Taylor Opportunity Program for Students

LA HB1023

Provides relative to Taylor Opportunity Program for Students award payments and eligibility criteria

LA HB385

Provides relative to Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (OR +$249,000 GF EX See Note)

LA HB510

Increases the ACT score and grade point average required for a Taylor Opportunity Program for Students Opportunity Award (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB413

Creates a new Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) award, the TOPS Transfer Award, and raises grade point average and ACT score required for initial eligibility for a TOPS Opportunity Award (EG DECREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB438

Creates a new Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) award, the TOPS-Tech Transfer Award (EG DECREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB509

Provides relative to the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students

LA HB675

Provides relative to the minimum ACT score for TOPS eligibility and caps TOPS award amounts

LA HB1115

Provides relative to high school graduation requirements and Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) core curriculum requirements (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)

LA SB48

Provides relative to the minimum ACT score for TOPS eligibility and TOPS award amounts. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Similar Bills

TN SJR0036

A RESOLUTION to recognize the fiftieth anniversary of Airtech Advanced Materials Group.

LA HB510

Increases the ACT score and grade point average required for a Taylor Opportunity Program for Students Opportunity Award (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB675

Provides relative to the minimum ACT score for TOPS eligibility and caps TOPS award amounts

LA SB48

Provides relative to the minimum ACT score for TOPS eligibility and TOPS award amounts. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB1153

Provides relative to Taylor Opportunity Program for Students

CA SJR7

Military and veterans.

LA HB945

Extends TOPS eligibility for certain students who reenlist in the U.S. Armed Forces and maintain continuous active duty (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB946

Extends TOPS eligibility for certain students who reenlist in the U.S. Armed Forces and maintain continuous active duty (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)