Florida House introduces education bill revising graduation and scholarship requirements

House Bill 1105, introduced in the Florida State Legislature on April 9, 2025, aims to enhance educational pathways and scholarship opportunities for students across the state. The bill proposes several key amendments to existing laws concerning career and technical education, fine arts recognition, and scholarship eligibility.

One of the primary objectives of House Bill 1105 is to integrate specific internships into counseling materials for students, ensuring they are presented alongside relevant courses. This initiative seeks to provide students with practical experience and better prepare them for the workforce. Additionally, the bill mandates the Florida Department of Education to develop new courses that align with these internship opportunities.

The legislation also revises graduation requirements for students pursuing the Career and Technical Education pathway, making it easier for them to meet the necessary criteria. Furthermore, it updates the eligibility criteria for students to earn the Seal of Fine Arts, promoting recognition for artistic achievements in education.

Another significant provision of the bill involves the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship program. It revises the strategic three-year plan to include the promotion of specific scholarship awards, aiming to increase awareness and accessibility for students. The bill also addresses the Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholars award, requiring career and professional academies to actively promote this scholarship, which incentivizes students to pursue career and technical education.

Notably, House Bill 1105 prohibits the transportation access fee from being included in the calculation of Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholars awards, potentially increasing the financial support available to eligible students. Additionally, it revises eligibility requirements for students who earn high school diplomas from non-Florida schools, broadening access to scholarship opportunities.

The introduction of House Bill 1105 has sparked discussions among educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in the education sector. Supporters argue that the bill will enhance educational outcomes and better prepare students for future careers, while critics express concerns about the adequacy of funding and resources to implement these changes effectively.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for Florida's education system could be significant, potentially reshaping how students engage with career and technical education and access scholarship opportunities. The next steps will involve committee reviews and discussions, with stakeholders closely monitoring the bill's developments.