School choice is closer to becoming a reality in Texas after the state House of Representatives voted early Thursday morning to approve a $1 billion voucher program. The vote was 85-63, with only two Republicans opposing the bill, making its passage likely. Although the legislation still faces some steps before reaching Governor Greg Abbott, supporters, including former President Donald Trump, are already celebrating this significant development.
Trump took to social media to congratulate Texas leaders, including Abbott, for passing the school choice bill. He described it as a major win for students and parents in Texas, emphasizing the goal of improving education across the United States.
The proposed program, known as the Education Savings Account (ESA) program, would allocate $10,000 each year for most Texas students attending accredited private schools. Students with disabilities would receive $11,500 annually, while homeschooling families could access $2,000 per child for qualifying educational expenses. A key requirement is that participants must be American citizens or legally residing in the U.S.
Governor Abbott has expressed his intention to sign the bill once it reaches his desk. He hailed the passage of the school choice bill as a historic achievement for Texas, stating that it would provide educational opportunities across the state, from rural areas to urban centers.
The voucher program will be capped at $1 billion in its first year but could expand to $4.5 billion annually by 2030. Funding for the ESA program will come from a separate budget, distinct from public school funding. In a related move, the state House also approved an $8 billion boost for public school funding.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick estimates that around 90,000 Texas students could participate in the ESA program. However, if demand exceeds funding, priority will be given to low-income families and students with disabilities.
The school choice bill has garnered strong support from conservatives but faced opposition from Democrats and teachers’ unions. Critics worry that the program could undermine public education and divert funds from public schools, which will still serve the majority of Texas students. They argue that the ESA program may primarily benefit families already sending their children to private schools.
This development in Texas reflects a broader trend of school choice initiatives gaining traction across the country, with similar programs recently enacted in states like Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. As the debate continues, the implications for Texas education remain to be seen.