Texas House Approves $1 Billion Private School Voucher Bill

The Texas House has passed Senate Bill 2, a historic $1 billion private school voucher program, marking the first time such legislation has cleared the chamber. The bill, a top priority for Governor Greg Abbott, allows eligible families to use state funds for private school tuition and related education costs, with initial funding capped at $1 billion but projected to grow substantially in coming years. The measure passed largely along party lines, with Democrats and a few Republicans opposed, citing concerns that the program could undermine public school funding and benefit from significant influence by conservative donors and political figures. Amendments to the bill include restrictions such as requiring private schools to be in operation for at least two years and capping funds for high-income families and students with disabilities. The bill now heads to the Senate, where a conference committee is expected to reconcile differences before final passage. Supporters argue the program expands parental choice, while critics warn it could create funding shortfalls for public schools, referencing similar outcomes in other states.