From Staff Reports | The Selma Times-Journal

The Alabama House of Representatives has voted to end Alabama’s status as one of eight states without charter schools.

Representatives approved a GOP-backed charter school bill Wednesday night in a 58-41 vote.

Republican Rep. Teri Collins of Decatur said charter schools will provide choices and opportunities to families.

The approval came after three hours of charged debate in which Democrats criticized the proposal.

Rep. Richard Lindsey, a Democrat from Centre, said he believed for-profit corporations would end up controlling the schools.

Charter schools are public schools that have freedom from regulations.

The charter school proposal would allow 10 startup schools each year and unlimited conversions of existing schools.

Rep. Darrio Melton of Selma released the following statement about his opposition to the legislation: “Today, the members of the House of Representatives voted to continue discussion about charter schools.

“This shows that members of the Alabama House are not ready to tackle the tough issues facing our state. We must show leadership and quit trying to add problems into a strained system.

“We need to fully fund the education system we already have: ensure every child has access to quality pre-kindergarten, updated textbooks, first-class teachers and clean facilities in which to learn.

“Not until we get our house in order can we begin to add charter schools into the system.”

State senators must decide whether to go along with House changes or send the bill to conference committee.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.