This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning Arizona empowerment scholarship accounts. Key changes include the requirement for qualified students to withdraw from any school district or charter school before enrolling in an Arizona empowerment scholarship account, and the stipulation that qualified schools must ensure that individuals providing tutoring or teaching services are not subject to disciplinary action by the state board of education. Additionally, the bill introduces new financial performance requirements for qualified schools, mandating that they report on their financial status and operational capabilities, including their ability to meet financial obligations and maintain student enrollment.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for regular program reviews of the Arizona empowerment scholarship accounts program by the joint legislative audit committee, including the development of a financial transparency portal and the establishment of an audit team to monitor the spending of scholarship funds. It also outlines the process for public hearings and the submission of reports to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of the program. Overall, these updates aim to enhance oversight and ensure that the objectives of the Arizona empowerment scholarship accounts program are being met effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2402, 15-2403, 15-2407, 41-1279.03, 15-766, 15-2401, 15-505, 15-534.04, 28-9551, 15-802, 15-185, 15-943, 35-190, 2020-2021, 35-113, 15-2401.01, 15-2404, 93-380, 15-914, 13-2310, 41-2954, 41-2952