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Bill

SF 413

Resident nonpublic school pupils permission to participate in extracurricular activities

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cal Bahr and 2 co-sponsors

Bill allows nonpublic school students to join public school extracurricular activities, expanding access but raising funding and fairness concerns.

Chief author added Bahr
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Bill Summary · SF 413

Legislative bill overview

SF 413 would allow students enrolled in nonpublic schools (private, charter, or religious schools) to participate in extracurricular activities offered by public school districts. Currently, most public school extracurricular programs are restricted to students enrolled in that district's public schools. The bill would create a mechanism for nonpublic school students to gain access to these programs.

Why is this important

This addresses a practical equity issue: nonpublic school students often lack access to the same breadth of athletic teams, clubs, and activities available at public schools, particularly in rural or smaller districts where nonpublic schools may have limited resources. However, it also raises questions about funding, liability, and the purpose of public school extracurricular programs—whether they should serve the broader community or primarily benefit public school enrollees who are funded through those districts' tax base.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and costs: Public schools would need to clarify whether nonpublic school participants pay fees, and who bears the financial burden of expanded programs
  • Enrollment caps and fairness: Nonpublic school students could potentially displace public school students from limited spots on competitive teams or activities
  • Administrative burden: Schools would need to manage eligibility verification, liability waivers, and potential conflicts with private school schedules and academic calendars

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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