Bill > SB0054

This bill amends the Carson Smith Opportunity Scholarship Program by making several key changes to the existing law. The bill updates definitions for eligible students, clarifying residency requirements and expanding eligibility criteria, including provisions for out-of-state military families. It modifies scholarship award calculations, removing previous income-based tiers and establishing a flat rate based on the value of a weighted pupil unit for different grade levels. The bill introduces new requirements for scholarship granting organizations, including enhanced residency verification processes, restrictions on processing fees, and mandates for annual independent audits. Private schools and service providers seeking to participate in the program must now meet additional criteria, such as completing orientation programs and providing more detailed disclosures to parents. The bill also expands allowable scholarship expenses, including provisions for extracurricular activities, physical education experiences, and therapy services, while placing some limits on these expenses. Additionally, the bill updates confidentiality provisions to allow the State Tax Commission to share certain tax information with scholarship granting organizations, subject to specific consent and verification procedures. The changes aim to provide more flexibility, transparency, and accessibility in the scholarship program while maintaining accountability for participating organizations.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0054.html