Bill Caption

Relating to the state virtual school network.

Fiscal Notes

Estimated Two-year Net Impact to General Revenue Related Funds for SB610, Committee Report 1st House, Substituted: a negative impact of ($4,887,140) through the biennium ending August 31, 2019, assuming that the 85th Legislature makes an appropriation for the implementation of the bill. The bill would take effect only if a specific appropriation for the administration of the bill's provisions is provided in a general appropriations act of the 85th Legislature. 

Bill Analysis

Under current law, a non-profit entity, private entity, or corporation can set up a state virtual school network only if it provides evidence of prior successful experience offering online courses to middle or high school students and they have to demonstrate student success in course completion and performance, as determined by the commissioner. This bill would expand the virtual school network by allowing course providers to provide courses for kindergarten and elementary school children.

These rules would only take place if the legislature makes an appropriation for their implementation.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill seeks to expand the availability of the virtual school network which provides an additional choice in education. Education choice benefits individual liberty. We support this bill.