Bill > S00860

This bill amends the education law to establish a new condition for converting an existing public school into a charter school. Specifically, a charter school application for conversion will be denied if the school has demonstrated a pattern of serious labor law violations, as determined by the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB). These violations must involve interference with or discrimination against employee rights under Article 14 of the Civil Service Law, which typically protects public employees' rights to organize, negotiate collectively, and be free from workplace discrimination. The bill does not permanently bar such a school from applying, however, as it allows the applicant to submit a new application in the future. By adding this provision, the bill aims to ensure that schools seeking to become charter schools respect labor rights and provide a fair working environment for employees. The provision is designed to prevent schools with a history of labor law violations from easily transitioning to charter school status.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S860