Bill > SB342

This bill establishes enforcement mechanisms and a private right of action to ensure that students participating in the CHOOSE Act, which aims to expand educational opportunities and parental choice in K-12 settings, are not discriminated against in interscholastic athletics. The CHOOSE Act itself contains a provision stating it does not alter athletic eligibility rules governed by associations like the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). This bill clarifies that these associations, or any similar organization regulating K-12 athletics, cannot adopt or enforce rules that limit a CHOOSE Act student's participation solely because they are part of the CHOOSE Act program, though standard eligibility rules like academic performance or residency still apply. CHOOSE Act participants, defined as students, their parents, or participating schools, can sue these athletic associations to stop such discriminatory actions, seek injunctions that prioritize student participation, and potentially recover economic damages and attorney fees if they prevail. The bill also addresses retaliation against those who advocate for CHOOSE Act students' athletic participation and specifies where legal actions can be filed.