Louisiana House Bill HB703

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14
• Report Pass: 4/21/14
• Engrossed: 4/30/14
• Refer: 5/1/14

Caption

Prohibits the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education from authorizing charter schools under certain circumstances (EG SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

Impact

The bill is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing education, particularly in the charter school sector. By restricting BESE's ability to approve charters once denied by local authorities, HB 703 reinforces local governance in educational decisions. The legislative move could lead to a more localized approach to education, where communities can exert greater influence over the types of educational institutions that operate within their jurisdictions. This shift could mitigate the proliferation of charter schools in areas where local boards feel they are not needed or effective.

Summary

House Bill 703, introduced by Representative Edwards, amends the powers of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) regarding the approval of charter school proposals. Specifically, the bill prohibits BESE from authorizing a charter school if the local school board has previously denied or imposed conditions on the same or a similar proposal. This legislative change aims to strengthen the authority of local school boards in the charter school approval process, thereby modifying the existing framework that allows charters to bypass local decisions under certain conditions.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 703 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill supports local control and accountability in education, allowing communities to make decisions that align with their specific needs. They believe it is a necessary step to ensure that the establishment of charter schools reflects community desires and educational priorities. Conversely, opponents may perceive the bill as an obstacle to educational innovation and choice, arguing that it could limit options for families seeking alternatives to traditional public schools. This division indicates a broader debate over the role of charter schools and the extent of local versus state authority in educational governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about potential educational inequities that may arise from limiting charter schools in higher-rated districts, as these schools often provide additional options for parents. Critics of the bill may argue that it reinforces complacency within well-rated school systems and hinders improvement opportunities in struggling districts. The discussions emphasize a fundamental tension in education policy: balancing the need for local control with the pursuit of innovative educational solutions that charter schools can provide.