Louisiana House passes HB 161 redefining TOPS-Tech eligibility requirements

The Louisiana House of Representatives convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss House Bill 161, a legislative proposal aimed at reforming eligibility requirements for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) and its associated awards, specifically the TOPS-Tech and TOPS-Tech Early Start programs. This bill seeks to enhance access to technical education for high school students and align training programs with workforce needs.

The primary focus of HB 161 is to modify the eligibility criteria for the TOPS-Tech Award, which currently supports students enrolling in two-year programs aligned with state workforce priorities. The proposed legislation shifts the responsibility for determining these programs from the Board of Regents to an advisory council established under existing law. This change aims to ensure that the programs remain relevant to the evolving job market and better serve the needs of Louisiana's economy.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new eligibility pathway for the TOPS-Tech Early Start Award, which benefits 11th and 12th graders in public high schools. In addition to the existing requirements—scoring a minimum on the ACT PLAN or attaining a silver level on the ACT WorkKeys assessment—students will now also qualify if they meet the criteria for technical dual enrollment courses as defined by the Board of Regents. This amendment is expected to broaden access to technical education for students who may not excel in standardized testing but are interested in pursuing vocational training.

During the legislative session, discussions surrounding HB 161 highlighted the importance of adapting educational programs to meet workforce demands, with proponents arguing that the changes will better prepare students for careers in high-demand fields. However, some opposition was noted regarding the potential for reduced oversight in program selection, raising concerns about the quality and relevance of the training offered.

The bill is set to apply to awards for the 2026-2027 school year and will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for bills to become law without signature. If vetoed, it could still be enacted with legislative approval.

As Louisiana continues to navigate the challenges of workforce development, HB 161 represents a significant step toward enhancing educational opportunities for students and aligning them with the needs of the state's economy. The outcome of this bill could have lasting implications for technical education and workforce readiness in Louisiana.