New Law Lets Florida Parents Pick Kids' Schools

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida parents who aren’t thrilled with the educational offerings in their own counties will soon be allowed to cross borders to select schools for their kids.

Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill Thursday that allows parents to cross county lines to choose schools. Not quite a carte blanche measure, however, House Bill 7029 does require that space be available at the desired school. Parents will also be required to provide their own transportation and kids can’t skip county lines to get out from under suspension or expulsion orders. The new rule goes into effect in time for the 2017-18 school year.

The bill that allows greater flexibility in school choice also creates new rules related to high school athletics. For example, private schools can join the Florida High School Athletic Association on a per-sport basis. Students who transfer schools will also be allowed immediate eligibility .

The school-related bill was just one of 20 signed into law by Scott Thursday. Other measures include a bill that requires hospitals to post their prices and average payments online, a bill that lets advanced registered nurse practitioners and physicians assistants to prescribe some medications and one that restricts people who help veterans apply for benefits from charging an administrative fee.

To check out all the bills signed Thursday, visit the Governor’s Office online.

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