Overview:
The Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 2 (SB 2), a school voucher bill that would divert over $10 billion by 2030 in public funds to establish a school voucher system, despite claims that it would prioritize low-income families. Critics argue that this bill undermines the foundation of neighborhood schools and would benefit wealthier families who are already more likely to afford private school tuition. The bill's timing is also concerning, as Texas ranks 41st in the nation for education and schools across the state are closing due to a lack of funding. Adjusted for inflation, the current basic allotment for public schools is at a 13-year low, and the fight against vouchers is far from over.
On Wednesday, February 5th, the Texas Senate passed, in a 19-12 vote, with all Democrats and one Republican opposing, Senate Bill 2 (SB2). SB 2 is a school voucher bill that would divert over $10 billion by 2030 in public funds to establish a school voucher system. This bill is not about improving education, it’s about funneling public funds into private schools that are unaccountable to taxpayers, all while undermining the foundation of our neighborhood schools.
Despite claims that the bill would prioritize low-income families, the eligibility criteria are so broad, that even families earning up to $156,000 per year could qualify for these benefits. This means that wealthier families, who are already more likely to afford private school tuition, would benefit the most from this program.
In addition, the timing of this bill could not be worse. Texas ranks 41st in the nation for education, yet we are one of the world’s largest economies. This is unacceptable. Schools across the state are closing due to a lack of funding, and teachers are being forced to leave their positions or take on second and third jobs just to make ends meet.
Adjusted for inflation, the current basic allotment for public schools is at a 13-year low. Now, countless districts are cutting programs and closing schools amid budget shortfalls. Texans already pay more in property taxes than residents in California, Florida, and 41 other states because our state has systematically underfunded our public schools for years by not paying their fair share.
The fight against vouchers is far from over. This session, we will continue to stand with a bipartisan, pro-public education coalition to defend our public schools.