FL H7051

Revises definition of "dependent child" to include those not deemed independent for federal financial aid purposes, and expands "parent" to include stepparents and legal guardians.

Prohibits denial of resident tuition classification to U.S. citizen dependent children based solely on their parent's immigration status.

Allows dependent children living with adult relatives (other than parents) to qualify for resident tuition if the relative has maintained 12 consecutive months of legal residence in Florida and the child has resided continuously with that relative for 3-5 years.

Allows high school graduates who attended Florida schools for at least 3 consecutive years to use either their own or their parent's residency documentation to establish resident tuition status within 12 months of graduation.

Classifies honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Services who physically reside in Florida while enrolled in higher education as residents for tuition purposes; effective July 1, 2013.