Bill > A00085

This bill amends the New York State Education Law to modify rental assistance funding for charter schools in New York City, specifically addressing how charter schools can obtain facilities and receive financial support for space. The bill changes existing provisions for charter schools in cities with over one million inhabitants (which means New York City), providing a detailed process for charter schools to request co-location in public school buildings or receive rental assistance. Key provisions include requiring the city school district to offer either a co-location site or alternative space within five months of a charter school's request, and establishing a graduated funding schedule for charter schools. The bill introduces a phased approach to rental assistance funding, where charter schools that were operating before the 2015-2016 school year will receive incrementally increasing percentages of their eligible rental assistance funds, starting at 20% in the 2025-2026 school year and reaching 100% by the 2029-2030 school year. The bill also outlines an appeal process for charter schools that are dissatisfied with facility offerings, including options for binding arbitration, expedited appeals to the commissioner, or special legal proceedings. The changes aim to provide more predictable and equitable access to facilities and funding for charter schools in New York City.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A85