Committee backs reinstating veteran TOPS eligibility provision

Senate Bill 105, presented to the House Committee on Appropriations in May 2026, would reinstate a previously sun‑set TOPS eligibility provision that aimed to help veterans access technical and community‑college training.

Senator Kathy (presenting) told the committee the provision was passed several years ago but went unused because no one had promoted it. She said the governor and the Department of Veterans Affairs have since created an outreach organization called the Boot to help veterans enter the workforce, and reinstating the TOPS tool would add to that toolkit.

"The sunset has expired, and so I'm just asking to reinstate it," the sponsor said, adding that her understanding was the change would be implemented using currently available TOPS dollars and would not require an additional appropriation.

Committee members asked whether money was already allocated and whether the program would have immediate use; the sponsor said the eligibility rules (including a one‑year domicile requirement) mean there would be limited uptake in the current year. Representative Marcel moved the bill favorably; no objection was raised and the committee reported SB 105 as favorable.

Why it matters: Supporters said the change would allow Louisiana to connect trained veterans to local jobs and reduce outmigration. Opponents did not press a fiscal objection in committee, but members sought confirmation that no new general‑fund spending would be required.

Next steps: SB 105 was reported favorable by the committee and will be scheduled for further House consideration.