Texas Senate files school choice legislation

AUSTIN, Texas -- The Texas Legislature is one step closer to establishing a school vouchers-like plan. On Friday, Texas Senator Brandon Creighton filed Senate Bill 2, the Senate's version of school choice legislation.

School choice, also referred to 'school vouchers' by critics, is a top priority for Texas lawmakers. It allows families to use taxpayer funds for alternative education options, like private or charter schools.

SB 2, filed by Sen. Creighton, includes $10,000 per student if the student is enrolled in accredited private school, and $11,500 for students with disabilities. Other students, such as homeschooled students, would receive $2,000. In 2023, the Senate's previous school choice bill included $8,000 for most students in private schools, signaling Republicans may be more confident in establishing a more sweeping plan this session.

"This session, we are fully committed to passing universal, comprehensive school choice legislation, ensuring every Texas family has access to the educational opportunities they deserve," Senator Creighton wrote in a statement. "It’s time for Texas to join the 32 other states that already empower parents and students with greater educational freedom."

Despite Governor Greg Abbott calling four special legislative sessions, Texas failed to pass a voucher program in 2023. The Senate has repeatedly passed its own vouchers plan, including multiple times in the 88th session. The House of Representatives, which has been characterized as less conservative than the Senate, is where the fate of school choice is likely to be determined.

ALSO | Democrats lose chairmanships and power in the Texas House

Democrats have begun the session as opposed to school choice as they did in 2023, though their coalition in opposition to vouchers appears different. Last session, Democrats joined rural Republicans to vote down a school choice policy, prompting Republican state leaders like Governor Abbott to endorse primary challengers to those members of their own party in an effort to garner the votes for school vouchers. Abbott has claimed the Texas House now has enough safe votes to pass a plan.

Budget proposals shared Wednesday show both the Texas House of Representatives and the Senate are seeking $1 billion for school choice over the next two years.