Arizona 2024 Regular Session

Arizona House Bill HB2624

Introduced
1/23/24  

Caption

Providers; financial audits; academic performance

Impact

With the introduction of section 15-2407, HB2624 brings significant changes to the operational framework of educational providers. By imposing stringent financial reporting and compliance audits, it seeks to align private providers with the regulations that govern public educational institutions. This shift could lead to improved financial oversight and academic accountability for firms that utilize state funding through the empowerment scholarship program.

Summary

House Bill 2624 aims to amend the existing Arizona Revised Statutes concerning the Arizona empowerment scholarship accounts by adding specific reporting and auditing requirements for providers. The bill mandates that providers who accept payments from parents or qualified students must adhere to the same financial and electronic data submission standards as traditional public schools or charter schools. This standardization is intended to enhance accountability and ensure transparency in how the funds are utilized by private education providers.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to strengthen accountability within the empowerment scholarship program, it may also spark debate among stakeholders concerned about the feasibility of increased regulatory requirements for private providers. Critics may argue that the added burden could limit the willingness of some providers to participate in the program, thereby reducing available options for parents and students seeking alternatives to traditional public education. Furthermore, this legislative change could set a precedent for greater involvement of the state government in the operations of private educational enterprises.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ HB2493

Providers; financial audits; academic performance

AZ SB1323

Performance audits; auditor general

AZ HB2889

ESAs; audits; transparency portal; reporting

AZ HB2662

ESAs; assessments; qualified schools; audits.

AZ SB1708

ESAs; assessments; qualified schools; audits

AZ SB1487

Qualified schools; audits; reporting requirements

AZ SB1643

Qualified schools; audits; reporting requirements

AZ HB2478

Empowerment scholarship accounts; financial audit

AZ HB2244

Auditor general; election systems; audits

AZ HB2562

ESA program; performance review; termination.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.