AR SB346

Amends Arkansas Code § 6-23-304(c)(1) to establish a cap of 24 open-enrollment charter schools beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, with automatic increases when the cap approaches capacity.

Institutes an automatic expansion mechanism that increases available charters by 5 slots whenever the number of available charters falls within 2 of the 24-charter limitation.

Requires the Department of Education to issue a commissioner's memo by March 1 each year stating the existing charter limitation and the number available for the next application cycle.

Declares an emergency, citing that the current charter school limitation disadvantages the state and restricts educational choice and opportunity for students and families.

Makes the act effective immediately upon gubernatorial approval, expiration of the veto period, or veto override.