Senate Bill No. 362 aims to amend and reenact various sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes related to charter schools, specifically changing the title from "Public Charter School Demonstration Law" to "Louisiana Public Charter School Law." The bill introduces new terminology and definitions, emphasizing the intent to provide school choice options for parents, teachers, and students. It establishes a framework for operational autonomy for charter schools, allowing them to make independent decisions regarding programming, personnel, budgeting, and other operational aspects, as long as they comply with applicable laws and policies set by the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Additionally, the bill extends public school liability protections to charter schools, ensuring that the same legal protections and limitations that apply to traditional public schools also apply to charter schools and their employees. This legislative change is designed to enhance the chartering process and promote innovative educational models while safeguarding the interests of economically disadvantaged students. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB362 Original: 17:3972(A), 17:3972(B)(1)(C), 17:3973(1), 17:3983(A)(2)