Georgia lawmakers approve bills on charter school finances and videos

The Georgia Senate on Thursday evening passed a couple education bills that now go to Gov. Nathan Deal for his signature.

House Bill 614 says video cameras can monitor special education classrooms, which is neither forbidden or expressly allowed under current law. House Bill 895 mandates financial training for charter school board members and a financial management certification program for school leaders and personnel in charge of money. It also prohibits principals from simultaneously taking on the role of finance chief.

During prior hearings about the charter school legislation, there was mention of an Atlanta charter school at risk of closure because of the alleged theft of more than $600,000. The legislation was said to address such problems.