House Resolution No. ___, introduced by Representative Echols, urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to conduct a study on the voting threshold required for parental approval when converting a preexisting school to a charter school. The current law mandates that a majority of parents of enrolled students must vote in favor of the conversion, with at least fifty percent of the student body represented in the voting process. Concerns have been raised regarding the challenges faced by parents, particularly in rural areas, in participating in these votes and meeting the required thresholds.

The resolution requests that the State Board submit a written report of its findings and recommendations for potential legislative modifications to the voting requirements by January 31, 2026. This report aims to address the needs of Louisiana's students and enhance the effectiveness of the Louisiana Public Charter School Law, which seeks to expand school choice and empower parents and educators in the charter school system. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the president of the State Board and the state superintendent of education.