State pumps millions into Bright Futures scholarship program

TALLAHASSEE (WWSB) - So many students are taking advantage of Florida's Bright Futures scholarships that the state is now pumping more money into the program.

On Thursday, a legislative panel approved adding $25.3 million to the program.

Last year's Legislature allocated $520 million for the program to provide 95,789 scholarships.

But during a conference in November, state analysts said 99,483 students earned the scholarships, which was around 3,694 more than anticipated.

As a result, the State Department of Education requested the extra money for the program.

The Legislature has significantly increased funding for higher-education financial aid programs in recent years, expanding Bright Futures awards to cover full tuition and fees, as well as to pay for some textbooks.