The bill amends and reenacts several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes related to charter schools, specifically R.S. 17:3971, 3972, 3973, and 3983, while also enacting a new section, R.S. 17:3991(C)(7). The changes emphasize the purpose of charter schools as providing school choice options for parents, teachers, and students, and establish a framework for operational autonomy. Notably, the term "Demonstration Programs" has been removed from the title of the law, which is now referred to as the "Louisiana Public Charter School Law." The intent of the legislature is to foster innovative educational approaches and ensure that the needs of economically disadvantaged students are prioritized.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifies the autonomy of charter schools, allowing them independent decision-making authority in various operational areas, including programming, personnel, and budgeting. It also mandates that applicants for Type 1 or Type 3 charter schools notify the state Department of Education upon submitting their proposals. The bill aims to enhance the charter school framework by ensuring that these institutions have the necessary autonomy to manage their educational programs and daily operations effectively.

Statutes affected:
SB350 Original: 17:3972(A), 17:3972(B)(1), 17:3973(1), 17:3983(A)(2)
SB350 Engrossed: 17:3972(A), 17:3972(B)(1), 17:3973(1), 17:3983(A)(2)
SB350 Reengrossed: 17:3972(A), 17:3972(B)(1), 17:3973(1), 17:3983(A)(2)
SB350 Enrolled: 17:3972(A), 17:3972(B)(1), 17:3973(1), 17:3983(A)(2)
SB350 Act 334: 17:3972(A), 17:3972(B)(1), 17:3973(1), 17:3983(A)(2)