Texas has officially adopted new regulations establishing a comprehensive $1 billion education voucher program aimed at providing families with financial support for educational expenses. The announcement, made on November 25, 2023, by Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock, confirmed that the rules outlined in Senate Bill 2 (SB 2), passed earlier this year, would take effect 20 days after their filing with the Texas Secretary of State.
The legislation introduces universal Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), known as the Texas Education Freedom Accounts program, allowing eligible families to utilize funds for private school tuition, educational therapies, textbooks, and various educational resources. The program is positioned to enhance “school choice” for parents and students across the state.
Key Features of the Voucher Program
Under the ESA program, participating students will receive a minimum of $2,000 annually to cover educational costs. Some students may qualify for additional support, with those attending accredited private schools or identified as “at-risk” pre-kindergarten students eligible for more than $10,000 annually. Students with disabilities could receive funding of up to $30,000. The program aims to benefit up to 100,000 students, with a priority system favoring low-income families and those with disabilities if applications exceed this cap.
The Texas Comptroller’s office stated that a family’s adjusted gross income will determine eligibility prioritization. Importantly, all students can apply for these funds, regardless of whether they are currently enrolled in public, private, or homeschooling environments.
While the initial funding remains set at $1 billion, projections suggest that this amount could rise to $4.5 billion annually by 2030.
Reactions and Controversy
The passage of SB 2 has generated significant debate among lawmakers. The Texas Senate Democratic Caucus publicly expressed “strong opposition” to the legislation, labeling it a “deeply flawed voucher scheme” that diverts taxpayer funds from public schools to private entities. Critics argue that this approach undermines the public education system, which serves the majority of Texas students.
In contrast, Hancock defended the program, emphasizing its intent to empower parents and create educational opportunities. She stated, “These administrative rules, like the program itself, put Texas parents in the driver’s seat… Education freedom accounts are about opening doors, expanding opportunities and giving each Texas child the chance to succeed in the environment that fits them best.”
Senator Paul Bettencourt, one of the authors of SB 2, echoed Hancock’s sentiments, asserting, “An old saying is iron sharpens iron, so shall school choice sharpen the entire Texas education system.” He highlighted the potential for educational savings accounts to foster competition and improve the overall education landscape in Texas, aligning with a broader national trend toward educational choice.
As the program prepares for implementation, it remains to be seen how it will affect the state’s education system and the diverse perspectives it has sparked among lawmakers and the public. The focus now shifts to the operational details and the response from families and educational institutions as the rollout approaches.
