Like to agree, but it all depends on the State. My son's high school picked two students who were to represent the school and the Local American Legion. We called the Boys State management, and they said if we came up with the money they had room for him. He paid his own way. $300.
The following year My Daughter who is home schooled wanted to go. She called the Girls state Rep and was told that they were quite full but had saved 2 slots in the whole state for Homeschoolers. She immediately sent them a resume, and pestered them till she got one of those slots. Being a bit more frugal, and less afraid to ask, she talked the local bank and a lawyer's office into sponsoring her even got $100. they lawyer said she could apply towards the proper clothing.
We had several people tell us that whole thing about "The only way to go is to be picked by your school" . That did not turn out to be the case, again I am sure every area is different.
Another advantage to "Fly over land"