Committee backs option letting locally authorized charters act as their own LEA; advocates raise liability concerns

House Bill 386, presented to the House Education Committee on March 24, would permit local school districts to authorize locally authorized charter schools to operate as their own Local Education Agency (LEA) under locally set rules. The bill is permissive — districts could offer the option but would not be required to grant it.

Sponsor testimony and advocates said the change would allow eligible charter schools to receive federal Title dollars (including IDEA funds for students with disabilities) directly rather than routing those funds through the district. Caroline Romer of LA Charters in Action and other charter representatives said the move levels the negotiating field and mirrors options Orleans Parish already has.

Witnesses and lawmakers repeatedly raised liability concerns: shifting LEA status shifts responsibility for compliance and services (especially special education) from the district to the charter, creating legal and operational risk for charters that accept the status. Committee members asked for rigorous local‑authorizer standards; witnesses and the department suggested developing state‑level standards or supports. Committee members also discussed the different charter types (type 1, 2, 3, 3B, 5) and how LEA status has been used in Orleans during the recovery and return process.

Caroline Romer and other advocates filed support cards; the committee reported HB 386 favorably by voice vote. Sponsors and members signaled follow‑up work may be needed on standards and oversight if the option is extended to more districts.