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 include a shift in terminology from "Demonstration Programs" to "Public Charter School Law," emphasizing the intent to provide school choice options for parents, teachers, and students. The bill aims to enhance operational autonomy for charter schools, allowing them to make independent decisions regarding programming, personnel, budgeting, and other operational aspects. Additionally, it introduces a requirement for applicants to notify the state Department of Education when submitting proposals for Type 1 or Type 3 charter schools.

The bill also clarifies the purposes of charter schools, which include increasing school choice and providing opportunities for innovative educational methods and governance structures. It establishes a framework for the establishment, renewal, and revocation of charters, ensuring that the best interests of economically disadvantaged students are prioritized. The new legal language emphasizes the autonomy of charter schools in managing their educational programs and daily operations, aligning with the overall goal of fostering innovative and effective educational environments.

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)