This bill amends existing Florida statutes related to charter schools, specifically section 1002.33 and section 1011.801. It expands the eligibility for applying for conversion charter schools to include municipalities, which can now apply to convert existing public schools into job engine charter schools aimed at attracting job-producing entities. The bill requires colleges and state universities to provide written notice of denial when they reject applications for conversion charter schools, and it revises the criteria for enrollment preferences to include children of employees from job-producing entities identified in annual reports from job engine charter schools. Additionally, it prohibits district school boards from charging rental or leasing fees for conversion schools and mandates that municipalities negotiate such fees.

Furthermore, the bill includes charter schools in the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program, allowing them to receive grants for creating or expanding career and technical education programs. The State Board of Education is tasked with considering applications from job engine charter schools for rulemaking purposes. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 140 c1: 1011.801
S 140 c2: 1011.801