In a landmark decision, the Texas House of Representatives passed a controversial school choice bill early Thursday morning, marking a significant shift in the state's education policy.
The legislation, a top priority for Governor Greg Abbott, establishes a $1 billion Education Savings Account (ESA) program, allowing parents to use taxpayer funds to cover private school tuition.
The bill passed with an 85-62 vote after hours of debate and the tabling of 44 proposed amendments.
Under the new program, eligible students will receive $10,000 annually for private school tuition, with additional provisions for disabled students, who may receive up to $30,000, and home-schooled students, who are allocated $2,000.
The program prioritizes students from public schools and those living below the poverty line, while capping funding for wealthier families and private school students at 20% of the program's budget for the first year.
Critics, including many Democrats and some rural Republicans, argue that the bill diverts essential funds from public schools, which are already grappling with budget deficits and declining enrollment.
Governor Abbott praised the passage of the bill, calling it a "monumental step" toward educational freedom for Texas families. He emphasized that the program aligns with his vision of making Texas a leader in education reform. The bill now heads to the governor's desk for his signature, solidifying Texas as one of the states with the most expansive school choice programs in the nation.
Meanwhile, public education advocates continue to voice concerns about the potential long-term impact on public school funding and equity.