Watch CBS News

ACLU Lawsuit Alleges Schools Charging Illegal Fees

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A lawsuit alleges California's cash-strapped public schools have been charging illegal student fees.

A lawsuit announced Friday by the American Civil Liberties Union says at least 32 school districts statewide are charging for textbooks, uniforms and extracurricular activities.

The state Supreme Court ruled in 1984 that such fees violate the state constitutional guarantee to a free public education.

The lawsuit names Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger as its defendant. Governor's spokesman Matt Connelly says the administration is aware of the lawsuit and will review it when it is served.

San Diego's school district rescinded fees last month after the ACLU wrote district officials a letter saying they were illegal.

(© Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.