FL S0566

Extends the initial award and renewal eligibility period for students unable to accept awards immediately after high school due to a full-time religious or service obligation lasting at least 18 months, with the period beginning upon completion of the obligation and requiring written verification from the entity.

Requires students seeking Florida Academic Scholars, Florida Medallion Scholars, or Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars awards to identify a social or civic issue or professional area of interest and develop a plan for personal involvement, with minimum volunteer service hours of 100, 75, and 30 hours respectively.

Prohibits students from receiving remuneration or academic credit for volunteer service work and specifies that acceptable work includes business or government internships, nonprofit community service, or political campaign activities.

Requires volunteer service hours to be documented in writing and signed by the student, the student's parent or guardian, and a representative of the organization where the service was performed.

Takes effect July 1, 2014.