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Louisiana Private Schools Sue Over 'Charlie's Law' Child Welfare Expansion

Private schools fight back against new child welfare standards. They say the law threatens their autonomy, but the state defends its right to challenge it.

In this picture we can see the view of the classroom. In the front there are some girls, wearing a...
In this picture we can see the view of the classroom. In the front there are some girls, wearing a white t-shirt and holding the books in the hand. In the front bottom side there is a man and woman sitting on the chair and discussing something. In the background there is a yellow wall and glass window.

Louisiana Private Schools Sue Over 'Charlie's Law' Child Welfare Expansion

A group of nonpublic schools in Louisiana has filed a lawsuit against the state's Department of Education, challenging 'Charlie's Law' (Act 409). The law, championed by 'Charlie' Chaplin, expands child welfare standards to all school-sponsored programs, including those in nonpublic schools, causing concern among private educators.

The lawsuit contends that the law imposes immediate administrative burdens and risks altering how faith-based schools run mission-driven early-childhood programs. The law requires nonpublic programs serving 3- and 4-year-olds to obtain a state Early Learning Center license, with potential penalties for non-compliance. However, public and Montessori schools are exempt from some of the mandates imposed on nonpublic schools.

The plaintiffs argue that the law intrudes on the autonomy of private education by imposing new mandates on nonpublic campuses. The department shares these concerns, acknowledging potential 'government overreach into private institutions'. The plaintiffs seek a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, and a permanent injunction against the law. Despite the challenge, the Louisiana Department of Education defends the right of private schools to challenge 'Charlie's Law'.

The lawsuit against 'Charlie's Law' aims to protect the autonomy of nonpublic schools while ensuring child welfare standards. The Louisiana Department of Education acknowledges the concerns but stands by the right of private schools to challenge the law.

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