Bill > H0331

This bill amends existing Idaho law to revise the Public Charter School Facilities Program, which helps charter schools obtain favorable bond financing for facility improvements and construction. The bill modifies several key provisions, including eligibility requirements for charter schools seeking to participate in the program. Schools must now submit comprehensive documentation to the Idaho Housing and Finance Association, including financial commitments, evidence of academic and financial performance, budget projections, and audit information. The bill changes some language from "must" to "shall" and updates specific requirements for school participation, such as maintaining debt service reserve accounts and providing direct payment directives to the Idaho Department of Education. Notably, the bill adjusts the limitation on bond issuance, replacing a complex calculation based on student percentages with a simpler standard tied to the available funds in the program's account. The bill also establishes ongoing fees for participating schools and creates mechanisms for handling potential defaults, including a process for repayment and potential legislative intervention if a school fails to meet its financial obligations. The changes aim to provide more structured financial support and oversight for public charter school facility financing, with the bill set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education

Education Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0331/