public schools; released time courses

SB 1741, the Arizona Released Time Education Act, permits Arizona public school districts and charter schools to allow students to attend external religious courses during regular school hours with parental consent. The courses must provide religious instruction for 1-5 hours weekly, be taught by qualified instructors, and include provider-managed transportation and student safety responsibilities. Schools must award academic credit using secular criteria (like instructional hours and materials) and count the time as instructional hours, but cannot pay for courses or host them on school property. Individuals harmed by violations can seek legal remedies including damages and attorney fees.