Bill would let students cross county lines for school

The House on Friday voted 80-36 for a bill that would let children enroll in any school in the state regardless of where they live. The provision is included in a comprehensive education bill that now heads to the Florida Senate.

If the bill (HB 1145) becomes law families could enroll in any public school if it has space. Families would be responsible for taking their children to and from the school.

House Democrats criticized the bill, saying the open enrollment provision would create a system of “haves and have nots.”

Republicans defended the measure because it would help those students who need the most help.

Republished with permission of The Associated Press.