H.B. No. 2196 seeks to enhance virtual education in public schools by allowing the commissioner of education to modify attendance calculations during emergencies, thereby safeguarding funding under the Foundation School Program. The bill introduces new definitions for full-time hybrid and virtual campuses and recognizes virtual and hybrid courses as legitimate educational offerings. It mandates that school districts and open-enrollment charter schools must provide valid reasons for denying student requests to enroll in these courses and requires written explanations for any denials. Additionally, the bill emphasizes support for students in transition, particularly those who are homeless or in substitute care, ensuring they have access to necessary educational resources.

Significant changes include the repeal of Chapter 30A of the Education Code, which previously governed virtual education, while allowing districts to operate under its provisions until the end of the 2026-2027 school year. The bill establishes a framework for the authorization and operation of full-time hybrid and virtual campuses, detailing the application process and performance criteria for these campuses. It also outlines funding and attendance verification for hybrid and virtual courses, ensuring equivalent funding to in-person courses, and introduces virtual education as an alternative to expulsion. The changes are set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, with immediate implementation possible if the bill passes with a two-thirds majority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 1.001, Education Code 7.0561, Education Code 25.007, Education Code 26.0031, Education Code 29.081, Education Code 33.009, Education Code 37.0081, Education Code 48.053, Education Code 48.104, Education Code 48.111 (Education Code 7, Education Code 25, Education Code 26, Education Code 37, Education Code 48, Education Code 33, Education Code 29, Education Code 1)
House Committee Report: Education Code 1.001, Education Code 7.0561, Education Code 25.007, Education Code 26.0031, Education Code 29.081, Education Code 33.009, Education Code 37.0081, Education Code 48.053, Education Code 48.104, Education Code 48.111 (Education Code 7, Education Code 25, Education Code 26, Education Code 37, Education Code 48, Education Code 33, Education Code 29, Education Code 1)