Legislature Reinstates Licensing Exemption for Accredited Schools
July 1--Governor Perry signed a bill last week reinstating accredited schools’ exemption from having to license before and after school childcare programs with the Department of Family and Protective Services. Senate Bill 68, authored by Senator Jane Nelson, exempts accredited private schools from redundant licensing requirements and further strengthens the position of accredited private schools alongside accredited public schools.
Senate Bill 68 is the culmination of two years of work to undo a legislative drafting error that removed this longstanding exemption from private schools in 2007. Along with Senator Nelson, Representative Mike Villareal and Representative Warren Chisum authored legislation to reinstate the exemption.
In addition to the Legislators who stood up for private schools in this session, TANS is thankful for the tireless and skillful efforts of our colleagues, especially the Texas Catholic Conference who partnered with us on behalf of all of the private schools in Texas.
As the public voice of private schools in Texas, TANS was also involved with legislation affecting private school participation in UIL and other licensing matters.
We continue to be vigilant regarding the effects that legislation and public policy have on the ability of private schools to pursue their independent missions in Texas.
Click here to read the full text of SB 68. (see the Enrolled version