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Panel advances measure to ease zoning for small private schools; opponents warn of funding diversion
Summary
PCS for HB 833 would allow private schools enrolling 150 or fewer students to operate as a permitted use in commercial and mixed-use zones and to use certain existing buildings if safety standards are met; the committee reported the bill favorably 13–3 after supporters emphasized access and opponents warned it could divert public funds from public schools.
Representative Cassell presented PCS for HB 833, saying it removes unnecessary local red tape to allow small private schools (150 students or fewer) to open in commercial and mixed-use zoning districts without rezoning, special exceptions, or land-use changes. The PCS also allows those schools to occupy existing commercial or assembly spaces provided the facility meets the Florida Fire Prevention Code and NFPA standards.
Michelle De Jesus testified in opposition, arguing the bill “expands the use of public funds for private school facilities at a time when Florida's public schools are already underfunded and overcrowded” and that private schools are not subject to the same transparency and accountability as public schools. Bill Maddox of the James Madison Institute said removing regulatory barriers will increase the supply of seats for scholarship families who seek alternatives.
Members raised concerns about traffic, pedestrian safety, and local governments' ability to mitigate hazards; Representative Cassell said she was open to working on limited safety-related mitigation requirements. After debate and no amendments, the committee voted 13 yays and 3 nays to report the PCS favorably.
