Gov. Brian Kemp signed two pivotal bills for Georgia’s public charter schools during a ceremony today at the Georgia Capitol. House Bill 318 increases transparency, improves oversight of Georgia’s charter schools and authorizers, protects charter school autonomy, and ensures public charter schools receive the funding to which they are entitled under state law. House Bill 1122 provides an estimated $6 million in additional funding for charter school principals and superintendents. In addition to allocating more funding for principals and superintendents in charter schools, the legislation also clarifies that charter school enrollment priority may be given to children of "part-time" paraprofessionals and other employees who work in charter schools.

“We’re grateful Governor Brian Kemp signed these crucial charter school bills championed by the Georgia Charter Schools Association (GCSA) and key legislators. HB 318 and HB 1122 are significant victories for Georgia’s 62,000 public charter school students and charter administrators across the state,” said Tony Roberts, GCSA President, and CEO. “HB 318 ensures that state and local charter schools will get the attention and support they need from the state. It will also clarify expectations for authorizers so they can perform well on Georgia’s charter school authorizer standards. Additionally, HB 1122’s allocation of increased funding for state and local charter school principals and superintendents brings Georgia one step closer to closing the funding gap between charter schools and traditional public schools.”

GCSA appreciates the dedicated efforts of Rep. Scott Hilton, HB 318 and HB 1122 sponsor; Sen. Shelly Echols, HB 318 Senate sponsor; Sen. Matt Brass, HB 1122 Senate sponsor; Rep. Chris Erwin, Chair of the House Education Committee; Sen. Clint Dixon, Chair of the Senate Education and Youth Committee; House Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones; Lt. Gov. Burt Jones; and House Speaker Jon Burns. GCSA also appreciates the bipartisan coalition of lawmakers who enabled the passage of this important legislation. These legislators showed an unwavering commitment to providing Georgia's public charter school students with high-quality and equitable educational opportunities. 

The Georgia General Assembly approved the following changes to state law under HB 318 and HB 1122.

HB 318 is set to take effect on July 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the funding provisions in House Bill 1122 will become effective in Fiscal Year 2026.