SEC. 70.

Section 47605.7 of the Education Code is amended to read: 47605.7. (a) A petition for the establishment of a charter school shall not be denied based on the actual or potential costs of serving individuals with exceptional needs, as that term is defined pursuant to Section 56026. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), this section shall not be construed to prevent a school district from meeting its obligation to ensure that the proposed charter school will meet the needs of individuals with exceptional needs in accordance with state and federal law, nor shall it be construed to limit or alter the reasons for denying a petition for the establishment of a charter school pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 47605.