Bill > S3710

This bill, the SOAR Permanent Authorization Act, makes several changes to the Scholarships for Opportunity and Results Act (SOAR Act), which provides scholarships for students in the District of Columbia. Key provisions include extending the duration of grants for eligible entities, allowing for renewals without a competitive process, and clarifying that these processes should not interfere with a school's regular admissions. The bill also broadens the definition of the "Washington metropolitan region" for residency requirements to include surrounding areas in Maryland and Virginia, and modifies accreditation requirements for participating schools, allowing for recognition by certain accrediting bodies or those approved by the Student and Visitor Exchange English Language Program. Furthermore, it expands the use of funds to include pre-kindergarten education and additional student academic assistance like tutoring, with a slight increase in the total authorized funding. The bill also refines requirements for standardized testing and program evaluations, including the frequency of public reports and the scope of assessments, and adjusts reporting requirements for entities receiving funds to focus on school violence, suspensions, and expulsions. Finally, it extends the authorization of appropriations for the SOAR program, increasing the annual amount to $75,000,000 starting in fiscal year 2027 and for each year thereafter.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3710/all-info