Senate Bill No. SLS 25RS-343 establishes the St. George Community School Board and school system in East Baton Rouge Parish, creating a new governance and operational framework under R.S. 17:58.2(J) and R.S. 68.1 through 68.6. The bill outlines the composition of the school board, the election process for its members, and the geographic boundaries that will align with the city of St. George. An interim school board, appointed by the governor, will be responsible for developing a governance plan and dividing the area into single-member districts. The bill also mandates the transfer of property and tax revenues from the East Baton Rouge Parish School System to the new St. George Community School System, effective July 1, 2027, while ensuring that the creation of the new system does not adversely affect funding allocations to other districts.

Additionally, the legislation addresses the transition of students and resources between the two school systems, allowing students to remain enrolled in their current schools for a specified period. It establishes that the St. George Community School Board will take jurisdiction over existing charter schools within its boundaries and outlines the process for transferring assets and funding. The bill includes provisions for the interim board's qualifications and responsibilities, ensuring compliance with public records laws, and stipulates that the interim board will be dissolved once the elected members take office. The law will only take effect if a proposed constitutional amendment is adopted in a statewide election, granting the new school system certain authorities typically held by parish school systems.

Statutes affected:
SB234 Original: 17:2(I)
SB234 Engrossed: 17:2(I)