Bill H. 3199 seeks to implement an open enrollment option for public schools in South Carolina, allowing parents to apply for their children to attend any school or program starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill requires local school boards to create open enrollment policies that comply with federal desegregation laws and outline application processes, capacity standards, and potential fees for nonresident students. It also emphasizes the need for public awareness of these opportunities and mandates annual reporting by school districts on transfer applications and their outcomes. Additionally, the bill prohibits public schools from contracting with private entities that restrict participation in interscholastic competitions based on attendance zones.

The legislation allows for the admission of students from adjacent counties, contingent upon arrangements for covering the per pupil costs not funded by the state, with the receiving district's school board needing to agree to the transfer. The bill also includes the repeal of Section 59-63-500 of the South Carolina Code, which pertains to transfers without the consent of the school district of residence. Furthermore, it contains a provision ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining sections will still be effective. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 59-63-25, 59-63-102, 59-63-30, 59-63-480, 59-63-500
Latest Version: 59-63-25, 59-63-102, 59-63-30, 59-63-480, 59-63-500