FL S0710

Establishes the Early Learning Scholarship program (Brighter Future Act) administered by the Division of Early Learning to increase access to high-quality early childhood education services.

Eligibility requires students to be Florida residents, not receiving other scholarships, meet one of seven priority categories (foster care, infants/toddlers with service plans, young parents pursuing diplomas, experiencing homelessness, low income, or direct certification list), and have household income not exceeding 300 percent of federal poverty level.

Students remain eligible for scholarships until admitted to kindergarten or reaching age 6 by February 1 of any school year; funds must be used for tuition and fees at approved private prekindergarten or school readiness providers.

Division must contract with independent contractor to evaluate program effectiveness and submit evaluation report by January 15, 2025 to legislative committees and state education agencies, including recommendations on scholarship amounts and kindergarten readiness impact.

State is exempt from liability for fund awards; program does not expand state regulatory authority over participating private providers beyond requirements expressly stated in the law.