Assembly Bill 497 aims to extend the application of Wisconsin's public records and open meetings laws to charter schools and private schools that participate in parental choice programs. The bill amends existing statutes to explicitly include charter schools and these private schools as entities subject to these laws, ensuring greater transparency in their operations. Notably, the bill also creates an exemption for records concerning individual pupils maintained by these schools, protecting student privacy.

The bill includes specific amendments to sections 19.32 and 19.82, defining charter schools and participating private schools as governmental bodies. Additionally, it establishes new provisions in sections 19.36, 115.7915, 118.60, and 119.23, mandating compliance with the relevant chapters of public records law. These changes collectively enhance accountability for charter and private schools while safeguarding sensitive student information.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 19.32(1), 19.32, 19.82(1), 19.82