The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the status and operational flexibility of charter schools. It establishes that charter schools are considered public facilities for concurrency purposes, allowing them to be treated similarly to other public facilities in local comprehensive plans. Additionally, the bill authorizes developers to make improvements or contributions to public schools, including charter schools, which can be credited against education impact fees. These contributions must be approved by local governments and are required to benefit schools within a three-mile radius of the development.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits local governing authorities from imposing certain vehicular stacking regulations against public and private schools during school hours, ensuring that such regulations do not limit enrollment. It also revises building requirements for charter schools, preventing local authorities from requiring special exemptions or approvals under land development codes that would not be required for traditional public schools. The bill aims to streamline the establishment and operation of charter schools while ensuring they are treated equitably compared to other public schools. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: H 569 Filed: 1002.33
H 569 c1: 163.3180, 163.31801