This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section, 15-802.02, to the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically addressing the participation of Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) students in interscholastic activities. Under the new provisions, ESA students would be allowed to participate in or try out for interscholastic activities on behalf of their school district of residence, mirroring the rights of enrolled students. The bill mandates that school districts maintain consistent policies regarding registration, eligibility, fees, and other requirements for ESA students, while also stipulating that participation fees cannot exceed the ESA student's pro rata share of the activity's costs.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific eligibility criteria for ESA students, including the requirement for parents to provide written verification of the student's academic standing. It also establishes conditions under which ESA students would be ineligible to participate, such as prior enrollment in a school district or charter school during the same school year. Furthermore, the bill prohibits school districts from contracting with private entities that restrict ESA student participation in interscholastic activities, ensuring broader access for these students. Definitions for "ESA student" and "pro rata share" are also included to clarify the terms used in the new section.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-802.02