AL HB496

Lowers minimum adoption age for Fostering Hope Scholarship eligibility from 14 years old to 7 years old for children adopted from the state foster care program.

Applies retroactively to children adopted in the 12 months preceding the act's effective date who were at least 7 but less than 14 years old at the time of adoption.

Maintains existing scholarship provisions for tuition and required fees at public two-year or four-year institutions, or job training and skill certifications at approved programs.

Preserves all existing eligibility requirements including net personal assets limit of $30,000, age under 26 at enrollment, FAFSA completion, and adequate academic progress.

Takes effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.