Requires charter schools to obtain a certificate of need issued by the state board of education in order to be eligible to operate

HB 1056 requires new charter schools (not operating by August 28, 2025) to obtain a state-issued "certificate of need" before opening. This applies to proposed charter schools seeking to operate in districts where the state board must verify sufficient demand for alternatives, adequate teacher/student capacity, and that the school will address inequities, improve academic outcomes, and meet family priorities like safety and transportation. The application, submitted by the school district or local government, must include documented evidence supporting these conditions. The state board of education must approve or deny applications within 120 days based on factual data. Existing charter renewals and sponsor transfers are exempt from this requirement.