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Bill

HB 77

TOPS: Adds the Excellence award level for students who score 31 or higher on the ACT and allows award qualification based on the Classic Learning Test (EN +$3,012,092 SG EX See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Roy Adams and 26 co-sponsors

Louisiana creates Excellence TOPS scholarship tier for ACT 31+ scorers, allows Classic Learning Test qualification, allocates $3M annually in state funding.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 347.
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Bill Summary · HB 77

Legislative bill overview

HB 77 expands Louisiana's TOPS (Taylor Opportunity Program for Students) scholarship by creating a new "Excellence" award tier for students scoring 31 or higher on the ACT and permitting qualification through the Classic Learning Test as an alternative to the ACT. The bill allocates an additional $3,012,092 in state general fund spending to support these expanded eligibility pathways.

Why is this important

This change directly affects college affordability for Louisiana high school students by creating a higher-tier scholarship award and offering test flexibility. The policy expands access to merit-based aid but commits significant recurring state funds during budget cycles when education funding is often constrained.

Potential points of contention

  • Test fairness and comparability: The Classic Learning Test is less commonly used than the ACT; questions may arise about whether it maintains equivalent rigor and whether score thresholds are appropriately calibrated across different exams
  • Budget sustainability: The $3M+ annual commitment represents new permanent state spending that must be maintained regardless of future budget pressures, potentially limiting flexibility for other education priorities
  • Academic preparation gaps: Higher test score requirements for Excellence awards may widen disparities if students from under-resourced schools have less access to test prep and tutoring resources

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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