This bill establishes a formal complaint process to address willful noncompliance with state education laws, reinforcing local control in school governance while ensuring equitable access to a safe learning environment for all students. It introduces definitions for "broad" and "limited complaints," as well as terms like "negligent" and "willful," to clarify the nature of noncompliance. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction is mandated to create a complaint process by July 1, 2026, enabling students, parents, and community members to file complaints against school district officials for violations related to civil rights, harassment, and curriculum requirements. If a complaint is validated, the school district must develop a compliance action plan and hold public hearings to address the issues.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding the administration of oaths for school officials and establishes a framework for handling complaints related to charter schools. By November 1, 2023, the commission is required to create an online system for charter school complaints, acknowledging receipt within 10 business days and taking appropriate actions, except for cases of willful noncompliance, which will be forwarded to the superintendent's office after existing procedures are exhausted. The bill also introduces new sections governing school operations for charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools, clarifying complaint processes and establishing a timeline for implementation, with certain provisions taking effect on August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.06B.070, 28A.300.286, 28A.343.360, 28A.710.185
Substitute Bill: 43.06B.070, 28A.300.286, 28A.343.360, 28A.710.185
Second Substitute: 43.06B.070, 28A.300.286, 28A.343.360, 28A.710.185