Subcommittee continues House Bill 359 on standards for private schools that accept public funding

The subcommittee continued consideration of House Bill 359 after a staff presentation detailing the bill's scope and estimated costs.

Staff member Zach told members that HB 359 from Delegate Helmer would set minimum standards for private schools that accept public funds through several vehicles cited in the transcript (including the federal HR1 Tax Credit Scholarship Program and Virginia's EISTC as referenced). The bill covers administration of Standards of Learning tests and associated accountability ratings, teacher licensure, nondiscrimination requirements and alignment of curricula to the SOLs. The department presented an estimated fiscal impact of between $3,000,000 and $4,500,000 in the first year and roughly $900,000 in FY 2028.

An unidentified member moved to continue the bill; the motion was seconded and decided by voice vote with 'aye' recorded and no opposition in the transcript. The subcommittee did not take a final vote and the measure will be taken up at a later session.