The proposed bill would amend current statutes by introducing new requirements for school districts and charter schools regarding released time courses. Specifically, it mandates that both governing bodies must allow students to attend these courses during regular school hours, provided that certain conditions are met, such as obtaining written consent from parents and ensuring that the course provider meets specific criteria, including recording attendance and providing religious instruction. Additionally, the bill stipulates that students must complete any missed schoolwork and that transportation for these courses is the responsibility of the provider or the students' parents.

Furthermore, the bill requires that academic credit be awarded for successfully completed released time courses, with the credit determined using secular criteria similar to those used for other courses. It also prohibits school districts and charter schools from incurring expenses related to these courses or allowing them to be conducted on school property. Importantly, the bill grants individuals adversely affected by violations of these provisions the right to pursue legal action against the respective school district or charter school. This legislation would be known as the "Arizona Released Time Education Act."

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