TOPS: Requests that the Board of Regents, in consultation with Louisiana Works, study potential changes to the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) with respect to the TOPS-Tech award

This bill asks the Board of Regents to study possible changes to the TOPS-Tech award, which helps Louisiana students pay for postsecondary training in high-demand fields. The study, to be completed by March 1, 2027, will look at whether the program should expand to cover more types of eligible programs, pay for fees beyond just tuition, and adjust eligibility rules for apprenticeship students or those working for specific workforce providers. It will also examine how well the program tracks student success, such as job placement and earnings, to measure its return on investment. The final report will include findings and any suggestions for new laws, and it will be sent to the House Committee on Education.