JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - The Mississippi House of Representatives continues to debate a proposal to broaden charter schools in the state.
Though some Republicans had opposed the bill as late as Tuesday, backers Wednesday amended it to bar charter schools from hiring for-profit management organizations. Some former opponents, including three Republicans from DeSoto County, have voted to defeat amendments, a sign they could support the bill.
Debate has lasted more than five hours, the longest since Republicans took over the House in 2012.
Charter schools are public schools that agree to meet certain standards in exchange for freedom from regulations. Proponents say they can improve academic achievement, especially among low-performing students. Opponents say they will drain high-performing students and money from traditional schools.
The Senate passed a separate bill last week.
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