This bill proposes to amend the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding section 15-2407, which establishes new requirements for providers accepting payments from parents or qualified students under the Arizona empowerment scholarship accounts. Specifically, it mandates that these providers adhere to the same financial and electronic data submission requirements as school districts or charter schools, as well as comply with existing reporting requirements. Additionally, the bill requires the inclusion of these providers in the department's annual achievement profiles and subjects them to performance audits, with considerations for their status as private businesses.

Furthermore, the bill allows the department or the office of the auditor general to conduct financial, program, or compliance audits of these providers and mandates periodic reporting on student enrollment and attendance. The definition of "provider" is also clarified to encompass various entities and individuals that offer goods or services eligible for funding through the Arizona empowerment scholarship accounts. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and oversight of providers involved in the scholarship program.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2407