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Legislation that officials say will offer more opportunities for students to continue their education after high school has now become law. Gov. Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 556 and codified the Georgia Dedicating Resources to Educationally Advance More Students (DREAMS) scholarship program under the Georgia Student Finance Commission. The bill also incorporates several other measures aimed at expanding access to higher education, strengthening workforce development and enhancing student financial aid programs across Georgia.

“I am grateful for all the teamwork that went into this expansive bill aimed at increasing access to higher education for Georgia students,” said Rep. Chuck Martin, R-Alpharetta, chairman of the House Higher Education Committee. “By codifying the Georgia DREAMS Scholarship program, expanding HOPE GPA eligibility to include AP Fine Arts courses and strengthening financial aid and workforce development initiatives, SB 556 will help more students pursue higher education and career opportunities, while supporting Georgia’s long-term economic growth.

“Ultimately, this bill provides hope for students who are grappling with the financial burdens associated with pursuing higher education,” Martin added.

In addition to codifying the Georgia DREAMS Scholarship program, Martin explained that SB 556 expands the Georgia HOPE Scholarship GPA calculation to include Advanced Placement Fine Arts courses.

The bill also establishes a new scholarship program for medical students and includes additional provisions affecting higher education and financial aid administration.

Martin went on to say that the bill modernizes several student support and financial management policies, including adjustments to 529 Plan contribution limits and tax incentives, updates to retirement contribution requirements for part-time work-study students at Technical College System of Georgia institutions and requirements related to opioid antagonist availability on college campuses when community funding is available. It also revises reserve requirements for Georgia Lottery funds to strengthen long-term financial stability for education programs supported by lottery proceeds.