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SB 1018

Schools, Charter - As enacted, prohibits a county LEA or public charter school authorized to operate in a county LEA from charging registration fees, enrollment fees, or tuition for a student who resides in the county and who transfers to a public charter school authorized to operate in the county LEA from another LEA located in the same county. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 13 and Title 49, Chapter 6.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee law eliminates registration, enrollment, and tuition fees for students transferring between districts to charter schools within the same county, effective immediately.

Pub. Ch. 388
#charter #schools
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Bill Summary · SB 1018

Legislative bill overview

SB 1018 prohibits county school districts and public charter schools from charging registration, enrollment, or tuition fees to students who transfer from other school districts within the same county to attend a public charter school. The law applies specifically to in-county transfers and became effective May 5, 2025.

Why is this important

This removes a financial barrier that may have previously prevented some families from accessing charter school options within their county. It standardizes funding treatment across school choice pathways and addresses equity concerns about families having to pay out-of-pocket fees to switch schools.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact on charter schools: Charter schools losing fee revenue may need to adjust budgets or rely more heavily on per-pupil funding, potentially affecting their financial stability or service offerings
  • Enrollment disparities: Removing barriers could shift student populations and funding away from traditional public schools, affecting their budgets and potentially concentrating certain student demographics
  • Out-of-county students: The bill specifically excludes students from different counties, which may create equity questions about why geography determines fee eligibility

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

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