Bill > HR175

This resolution urges and requests the Board of Regents, in consultation with Louisiana Works, a state agency focused on workforce development, to study potential changes to the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS), specifically its TOPS-Tech award. The TOPS program provides financial aid for postsecondary education, and TOPS-Tech is designed to help students pursue training and credentials in high-demand fields to enter Louisiana's workforce. The study will examine several aspects, including whether Louisiana Works should determine eligible programs for TOPS-Tech, if the award should cover fees in addition to tuition, and if alternative eligibility requirements could be established for students in apprenticeships or employed by certain workforce providers. The study will also assess the possibility of tracking program completion, job placement, earnings, and other measures of return on investment. The Board of Regents is required to submit a written report of their findings and any legislative recommendations to the House Committee on Education by March 1, 2027.