News Summary
The Texas House has passed a significant education bill allocating $1 billion in taxpayer funds for education savings accounts (ESAs) aimed at helping families cover private school tuition and related costs. This legislation, prioritizing low-income students and those with disabilities, reflects a shift in educational policy despite opposition from Democrats and some Republicans. Governor Abbott plans to sign the bill, which contrasts with previous failed attempts and is accompanied by a separate substantial funding initiative for public schools. Advocates argue the bill promotes choice, while critics warn of its impact on public education.
Austin, TX – The Texas House approved a significant education bill early Thursday morning, allocating $1 billion in taxpayer funds for education savings accounts (ESAs). These accounts are intended to help families cover private school tuition and related educational expenses. The bill passed with a vote of 86-63 after an extensive 10-hour debate, signaling a marked shift in educational policy.
Every Democrat and two Republicans, Dade Phelan and Gary VanDeaver, opposed the legislation, which represents a notable change from last year’s failed attempts to introduce similar reforms. Governor Greg Abbott has expressed his intention to swiftly sign the bill into law, heralding it as a victory for families seeking a wider range of educational choices.
The House’s proposed ESA program aims to prioritize low-income students and those with disabilities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity despite criticism regarding its potential impact on public education funding. A key aspect of the bill is its connection to public education funding; families will receive funds equivalent to 85% of the standard per-student funding, approximately $10,900, with additional support for students with disabilities. This funding plan contrasts with the Texas Senate’s proposal, which suggested a flat rate of $10,000 per student.
One Republican amendment proposed by Representative Brad Buckley was successfully included in the legislation. It mandates that private schools must operate for two years before being eligible to join the program and also requires annual reports on dropout, expulsion, and graduation rates for students with disabilities participating in the ESA program.
While some supporters of the bill believe that it promotes educational empowerment and parental choice, opponents have raised concerns that the funding primarily benefits students already enrolled in private institutions and could weaken the public education system. Major amendments proposed by Democrats, including a public referendum and increased funds for low-income families, were largely defeated during the legislative session.
The bill follows the earlier approval of House Bill 2, which infuses nearly $8 billion into public school funding, including provisions for teacher pay raises and special education initiatives. This earlier bill garnered overwhelming bipartisan support, passing with a vote of 144-4. In contrast, the ESA program’s advancement reflects a significant battle over school choice in Texas, an issue that has seen decades of unsuccessful attempts to gain traction.
The ESA program is projected to distribute its $1 billion allocation over two years, beginning in the 2026-27 school year. As the educational landscape shifts, advocates for the bill express optimism that it will empower families with greater choices, while critics argue that it may disproportionately favor wealthier families and drain vital resources from public schools.
National and state political pressures have also played a role in shaping the opinions and votes of lawmakers regarding the ESA bill, adding another layer to the ongoing conversation about education reform in Texas. As the legislation moves forward, its implications for public and private education in the state remain a focal point for many stakeholders involved.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Approves $1 Billion School Voucher Bill
Texas Senate Approves $1 Billion Education Savings Account for Schools
Texas Senate Passes $1 Billion School Choice Bill
Texas Approves Multi-Billion Dollar Education Program
New School Choice Bill Passes in Austin
Texas House Passes School Choice Bill Amid Controversy
Austin ISD Faces Controversy Over Principal and Teacher Termination
Texas Legislature Advances School Choice with ESA Bills
Lubbock Community Stands Firm Against School Voucher Proposal
Pearland Community Advocates for School Funding
Additional Resources
- KXAN News
- Wikipedia: Education Savings Account
- Community Impact
- Google Search: Education Savings Account Texas
- FOX 7 Austin
- Google Scholar: Texas education funding
- Border Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Choice
- KVUE News
- Google News: Texas education legislation
