The bill amends existing law concerning the interstate compact on educational opportunity for military children, with the goal of improving educational access and success for children from military families. It establishes the compact's purpose, which includes facilitating timely enrollment, ensuring equitable treatment in educational placements, and promoting on-time graduation. Key changes include redefining "active duty" to "currently enlisted" and clarifying the roles of local education agencies in supporting military families. The bill also outlines member states' responsibilities, such as creating a State Council to coordinate efforts among various stakeholders and emphasizing flexibility in course placements and attendance policies for students affected by military deployment.

Additionally, the bill establishes the "Interstate Commission on Educational Opportunity for Military Children," which will facilitate educational policies and support for military families across member states. It allows states without a high concentration of military children to appoint a representative from another district to the State Council and mandates the appointment of a military family education liaison. The bill details the Commission's structure, operational procedures, and powers, including dispute resolution and rulemaking authority. It also outlines the financial responsibilities of the Commission, including the ability to levy assessments on member states, and specifies the process for withdrawal from the compact while ensuring compliance with its provisions. Notably, it updates terminology regarding the "armed forces" to "Armed Forces" and clarifies qualifications for state representatives on the Commission.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 3.1041, 3.1042
Substitute (H-2): 3.1041, 3.1042
House Introduced Bill: 3.1041, 3.1042
As Passed by the House: 3.1041, 3.1042