This bill proposes to amend current statutes related to public schools in Arizona by introducing provisions for released time courses, which allow students to attend religious instruction during regular school hours. Under the new law, charter schools and school districts must obtain written consent from parents for student participation and ensure that the course provider meets specific requirements, such as recording attendance and assuming legal responsibility for students. Additionally, students must complete any missed schoolwork and the schools must award academic credit based on secular criteria, while counting the time spent in these courses as instructional time.

The bill also stipulates that neither charter schools nor school districts can incur expenses for providing released time courses or allow these courses to take place on school property. However, they cannot deny equal access to released time course providers regarding resources offered to other community groups. Furthermore, individuals adversely affected by violations of this section would have the right to seek legal remedies, including injunctive relief and monetary damages. The act is designated as the "Arizona Released Time Education Act."

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-189.08, 15-341.02, 15-797, 15-808, 15-901