FL S0248

Revises definition of "dependent child" to require that the child receives at least 51 percent of true cost-of-living expenses from their parent, as defined by State Board of Education rules.

Establishes a new reclassification pathway for nonresident students to become eligible for resident tuition rates by providing evidence of permanent residency such as full-time employment for 12 months or home purchase and residence in Florida for 12 months.

Allows dependent children who move to Florida while in high school and graduate from a Florida high school to qualify for resident tuition when their parent meets permanent residency requirements.

Adds two new categories of students eligible for resident tuition status: employees of international multilateral organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of State and their dependents, and students who have resided and attended high school in Florida for at least 3 consecutive years and are pursuing immigration legalization.

Clarifies that illegal immigrants who qualify for resident tuition status under the new provisions are not eligible for state financial aid.