A new study shows that nearly half of the charter schools in Georgia could be in financial trouble.

The report by Georgia State University found that money problems have led a handful of charter schools to close in the last few years.

More could shut down if the schools don't find a way to operate in the black.

The report looked at the finances of 25 charter schools over 2 years.

The schools operate independently of local districts and the state, but receive taxpayer dollars.

Charter schools are given the autonomy to be innovative and are exempt from most educational mandates.

Tags: Georgia State University, money, financial, charter schools, taxpayer dollars