Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s signing of a $1 billion school voucher law has ignited a fierce debate over educational equity, public funding, and the future of the state’s school system.
At a Glance
- Texas enacts $1 billion school voucher program
- Families to receive up to $10,000 for private school tuition
- Program prioritizes students with disabilities and low-income families
- Critics warn of potential $4.8 billion cost by 2030
- Concerns raised over impact on public school funding
Landmark Legislation Signed
On May 3, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 2 into law, establishing a $1 billion school voucher program in Texas. The legislation allows families to use taxpayer funds to cover private school tuition and related educational expenses. Eligible students can receive up to $10,000 annually, while students with disabilities may qualify for up to $30,000.
The program is set to launch in the 2026–27 academic year and will be administered through Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), which function as state-managed bank accounts for educational expenses.
Watch CBS News’ report on the incident at Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs controversial school choice bill into law.
Eligibility and Prioritization
The voucher program is open to most Texas families, including those already enrolled in private schools. However, if demand exceeds available funding, priority will be given to:
- Students with disabilities from families earning up to 500% of the federal poverty level (approximately $160,000 for a family of four).
- Families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level (approximately $64,000 for a family of four).
- Families earning between 200% and 500% of the federal poverty level.
- Families earning above 500% of the federal poverty level, limited to 20% of the program’s budget.
Homeschooling families are also eligible to receive up to $2,000 annually per student.
Political Support and Opposition
The passage of Senate Bill 2 marks a significant victory for Governor Abbott, who campaigned aggressively for the legislation, including targeting Republican lawmakers who opposed previous voucher proposals . The bill received strong support from Republican leaders, including Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustin Burrows.
President Donald Trump also praised the legislation, calling it a “gigantic victory for students and parents in the Great State of Texas”.
However, the bill has faced criticism from Democrats and some rural Republicans. State Senator Sarah Eckhardt, D-Austin, argued that the program diverts funds from already underfunded public schools to benefit a small percentage of students, many of whom are already attending private schools.
Financial Implications and Accountability
The initial $1 billion funding for the program is capped for the first two years, but costs could escalate to $4.8 billion annually by 2030, depending on legislative appropriations . Critics express concern that the program may siphon funds from public schools, which serve over 5 million students in Texas.
While the law includes some accountability measures, such as annual audits and standardized testing requirements, private schools participating in the program are not required to accept all students or comply with federal laws ensuring services for students with disabilities.
Broader Context and Future Outlook
With the enactment of Senate Bill 2, Texas becomes one of over 30 states implementing taxpayer-funded school voucher programs. The legislation represents a significant shift in the state’s education policy, emphasizing parental choice and privatization.
As the program rolls out, ongoing debates are expected over its impact on public education funding, educational equity, and the effectiveness of private school alternatives. Legal challenges from public education advocates are also anticipated as the state navigates the implementation of this landmark legislation.
Watch CBS News’ report on the incident at Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs controversial school choice bill into law.
