Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) reintroduced the Equitable Access to School Facilities Act. This legislation will make it easier for charter schools to access public property and provide federal grants to states for charter school facilities. The grants, available from the Federal Charter Schools Program, can be used by charter schools to acquire and renovate existing facilities, cover ongoing facilities costs, or create a reserve fund for future acquisition, renovation, or maintenance.
“All students deserve a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college and their career. Across Colorado, charter schools improve student achievement and provide students with the flexibility and innovative teaching they need,” said Bennet. “This bill will invest in charter schools and give them additional tools to support students of every background.”
“When families have the opportunity to send their child to a charter school, they are empowered to choose the best education that meets their child’s needs,” said Cassidy. “This legislation strengthens charter schools, giving them greater tools to help children succeed in the classroom.”
Specifically, the Equitable Access to School Facilities Act will:
- Improve charter schools’ access to facilities funding and financing within a state by reducing gaps in funding between charter schools and other public schools and adding a revolving loan fund;
- Promote charter schools’ utilization of public buildings without a federal interest; and
- Increase charter schools’ access to facilities located in low-income and rural communities.
“Access to appropriate and affordable school buildings is one of the biggest barriers to charter school growth,” said Starlee Coleman, President & CEO, National Alliance for Public Charter Schools. “Expanding the types of state and local charter facilities funding programs that qualify for the State Facilities Incentive Grant matching funds would have a huge impact on schools’ ability to serve more students.”
As a former school superintendent, Bennet has long supported efforts to expand educational opportunities for students across the country. Bennet and Cassidy previously introduced the Equitable Access to School Facilities Act in May 2023. In October 2023, Bennet, Cassidy, and Senate colleagues introduced the Empower Charter School Educators to Lead Act to help states streamline the application process for opening new charter schools. In May 2024, Bennet introduced a resolution to celebrate National Charter Schools Week and commend charter schools for their contributions to education.
The text of the bill is available HERE. A summary of the bill is available HERE.