The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding school leases by granting charter schools the right of first refusal to purchase buildings owned by school districts if those buildings are put up for sale. Specifically, it would insert language stating that a charter school or its charter authorizer, which is leasing a building or is the most recent lessee of a vacant building, has this right. Additionally, the bill would clarify that a school district cannot withdraw a property from sale solely because a charter school exercises this right. It would also establish new procedures for lease termination or nonrenewal, requiring school districts to hold public hearings and allow for public comment before making such decisions.

Furthermore, the bill would exempt proceeds from the sale of school property to other schools from existing restrictions on the expenditure of those proceeds. This includes sales to charter authorizers and would allow for more flexibility in how these funds can be used. The bill also makes technical changes and specifies that these amendments would apply retroactively to January 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the rights of charter schools in relation to school district properties and streamline the process for lease management.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-119
House Engrossed Version: 15-119, 15-1102, 41-563