Lawmakers in the state capital engaged in hours of heated debate over a controversial education reform bill that would redirect public funding to private schools through a new school choice initiative.
House Bill 17 narrowly cleared the House on a 61-59 vote, reflecting deep divisions among legislators. The bill’s most debated provision would establish education scholarship accounts, commonly referred to as “vouchers,” enabling families to use public funds for private school tuition.
Proponents argued the measure would give parents more educational options. “This is not an attack on public schools,” said House Speaker David Franklin. “We can support strong public schools while also offering parents new choices starting in 2026. I’m encouraged that the House has taken this important step.”
Opponents, however, voiced concerns that the bill would undermine the state’s public school system. Representative Marcus Lane criticized the proposal, stating, “Voucher bills do not expand choice—they abandon public education. In our state, public schools are more than just classrooms; they are the cornerstone of our communities and often the biggest employers in rural areas. Pulling funding from these schools doesn’t create opportunity; it leads to decline.”
Democratic lawmakers also highlighted concerns over accountability, insisting that private schools receiving public funds should adhere to the same standards as their public counterparts. Supporters countered that private schools would be required to administer nationally recognized assessments.
The vote split both parties, with 17 Republican members joining Democrats in opposition. The bill represents Speaker Franklin’s chief legislative priority for the year.
Meanwhile, Senate Education Committee Chairperson Linda Chen indicated that the Senate is only open to considering school choice proposals that would allow students to transfer between public schools, rather than to private institutions.
