The proposed bill would amend current statutes by adding new sections to Title 15, Chapter 8 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically addressing the eligibility of private school students to participate in interscholastic activities at public schools. Under the new provisions, private school students residing in the attendance area of a public school would be allowed to try out for these activities in the same manner as enrolled students. The bill also establishes that the policies governing participation for private school students must align with those for public school students, including requirements for registration, age eligibility, and standards of behavior. Additionally, parents of private school students would need to provide written verification of their child's academic standing to the public school.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits public schools from charging private school students a participation fee that exceeds their pro rata share of the program costs, which is defined as the total budgeted amount for the activity divided by the number of participating students. It also clarifies that public schools can require all participating students to cover certain expenses, as long as this requirement applies uniformly to both enrolled and non-enrolled students. The bill aims to ensure equitable access to interscholastic activities while maintaining consistent standards across public and private school students.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-802.02, 15-802.03
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-802.02, 15-802.03