Supporters of a bill to restrict who can operate charter schools in New Mexico say it would stop efforts to undermine public schools.
According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, the bill would bar the state, school districts and other public entities from contracting with private organizations and companies to operate charters.
The bill also would specify that charters must be run by a governing board whose members must all be New Mexico residents.
The Rev. Trey Hammond of Albuquerque Interfaith says private educational entities' efforts to find footholds in New Mexico amount to "Trojan Horse" attacks on public schools.
State Public Education Department spokesman Larry Behrens says the legislation is misguided. He says it counters efforts to provide access to good education.
Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.