California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law a bill requiring charter schools to comply with the state’s accountability and transparency laws.

Last week, the State Legislature passed and sent SB 126, the Charter School Accountability and Transparency Bill to the Newsom’s desk for final approval.

During the signing ceremony on Tuesday, the governor described SB 126 “common sense” legislation because” parents and kids deserve to know how schools use their tax dollars.”

Conversation about improving education in California is just beginning

Additionally, Newsom said, “This isn’t the end of a conversation but a beginning. Let’s use this momentum to move forward together, constructively and in partnership, to improve education for children across California.”

State Sen. Connie Leyva, co-author of the bill, commented, “For far too long, charter schools in California have been held to lower accountability and transparency standards than traditional public schools… SB 126 will ensure that all publicly funded schools—including charter schools—guarantee fair and open access to information. This measure also empowers parents to keep school leaders responsive and accountable.”

On the other hand, Assembly member Patrick O’Donnell, co-author of SB 126 said the enactment of the bill ensures that transparency and common ethical practices apply to all public schools receiving taxpayers’ money.

The California Charter Schools Association (CCSA) thanked Newsom for his leadership in helping “secure a balanced and comprehensive resolution to this longstanding debate.”

CCSA President and CEO Myrna Castrejón expressed confidence that the governor will remain committed in uniting all public schools stakeholders to embrace accountability and transparency.

The California Teachers Association (CTA) also expressed gratitude to Newsom and the Legislature for ensuring accountability and transparency in charter schools.

CTA President Eric Heins, commented, “The waste, fraud and abuse that has taken millions in much-needed funding and resources from our students has to stop and this new law will help parents and taxpayers know how their money is being spent.”

Heins also noted that there are four new legislative proposals that could fix the existing flaws in laws governing charter schools.