TOPS: Provides for eligibility requirements for TOPS-Tech and TOPS-Tech Early Start (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

Changed the eligibility requirement for TOPS-Tech programs from alignment with state workforce priorities to being designated as a 'qualified program' by the advisory council.

Updated the statutory language to explicitly reference the advisory council's determination of qualified programs under R.S. 17:3047.1.

Revised the text regarding the continuation of awards for students enrolled in programs that are later deemed no longer aligned or qualified, ensuring clarity on student protections.

Updated TOPS-Tech eligibility to prioritize associate's degrees and shorter-term training programs aligned with state workforce priorities rather than just those lacking bachelor's degrees.

Expanded TOPS-Tech Early Start eligibility to include programs leading to Industry-Based Certifications, Certificates of Applied Science, and Certificates of Technical Sciences at nonpublic institutions.

Changed the funding amount for eligible institutions without bachelor's degrees to equal the weighted average of tuition charged during the 2016-2017 academic year.

Updated student performance requirements for TOPS-Tech Early Start to include a silver level score on the ACT WorkKeys system as an alternative to ACT or SAT scores.

Confirmed the act applies to the 2026-2027 school year and established the effective date based on gubernatorial signature or legislative approval.

Corrected the verb tense in the eligibility requirement for the TOPS-Tech Early Start Award from 'have attained' to 'attain' a silver level score on the ACT or SAT assessments.