This bill amends Chapter 52, Title 33 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 33-5207A, which establishes provisions for earned autonomy for public charter schools. It allows non-virtual public charter schools that meet specific criteria to utilize their allocated state funding—including discretionary and categorical funds—at their discretion without needing to revise their charter or performance certificate. The funding for these schools will be based on their per-pupil funding from the previous fiscal year, adjusted for changes in statewide education funding and school population.

Additionally, participating public charter schools will be exempt from various reporting requirements and will maintain spending flexibility from year to year, with the state department of education retaining the authority to revoke this eligibility under certain conditions. The bill also stipulates that teachers transitioning from these charter schools to other public schools will be recognized for their years of service, and it mandates a report to the legislature in 2029 regarding the performance of participating schools. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and does not affect the appropriation of federal and dedicated funds for non-participating charter schools.