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 interscholastic 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 the student's academic standing.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits public schools from charging private school students a participation fee that exceeds their pro rata share of the program costs for interscholastic activities. This pro rata share is defined as the total budgeted amount for the activity divided by the number of participating students. The bill also clarifies that public schools can require all participating students to cover certain expenses, provided this requirement applies equally to both enrolled and private school students. Overall, the bill aims to create equitable access for private school students to public school interscholastic activities while ensuring that financial obligations are fairly distributed.

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