This bill amends and reenacts several provisions related to charter schools in Louisiana, specifically focusing on charter school proposals, applications, and admissions lotteries. Key changes include the adjustment of enrollment requirements for economically disadvantaged students and students with exceptionalities, reducing the required percentage from eighty-five to seventy percent. Additionally, new provisions are introduced to ensure that if the aggregate enrollment data for all charter schools within a school system meets the specified requirements, all charter schools in that system will be deemed compliant. The bill also mandates that charter schools conduct admissions lotteries when the number of eligible applicants exceeds their capacity, with specific transparency requirements regarding the lottery process.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of considering the best interests of economically disadvantaged students in charter school proposals and educational programs. It prohibits charter schools from requiring parents to disclose medical or economic information prior to enrollment, while still allowing for enrollment preferences for students with special needs or those who are economically disadvantaged if such information is voluntarily provided. The legislation aims to enhance the transparency and fairness of the charter school admissions process while ensuring that the needs of vulnerable student populations are adequately addressed.

Statutes affected:
HB708 Original: 17:3973(2), 17:3983(F)(1), 17:3991(B)(3), 17:1(E)(2), 17:3991(B)(1)
HB708 Engrossed: 17:3973(2), 17:3983(F)(1), 17:3991(B)(3), 17:1(E)(2), 17:3991(B)(1)
HB708 Enrolled: 17:3973(2), 17:3983(F)(1), 17:3991(B)(1), 17:1(E)(2)
HB708 Act 659: 17:3973(2), 17:3983(F)(1), 17:3991(B)(1), 17:1(E)(2)