The charter movement emerged as an alternative to existing educational delivery system. Legislative policies impacts the outcome for charter schools. In California, the existing legislation creates a tension between the approving school district and applying charter school. . Beyond the funding implications, facilities impact is also a major source of tension in California.

With the election of President Barack Obama, the ability to determine between public and private education will become blurred.

In 2012, the Legislative Analyst Office issued a report comparing the funding levels for charter schools in California.