Creating Charter Schools Startup Fund

The fund name was changed from 'Charter Schools Startup Fund' to 'Charter Schools Stimulus Fund' in one version, then reverted to 'Charter Schools Startup Fund' in the final committee substitute.

Expanded allowable expenses to include personnel, instructional materials, supplies, computers, educational equipment, furniture, internet and phone installation, security systems, and renovating buildings.

Added a requirement that when there are more applicants than available funds, the board must establish a competitive preference process that favors applicants not working with education service providers.

Removed the requirement that applicants must demonstrate they would not otherwise have the financial capacity to start a charter school without the fund.

Changed the timing for when initial grants may be awarded to allow funding as soon as a school enters a valid contract with the authorizer, rather than only during or before the first two years of operation.