Texas Governor Greg Abbott approved a new $1 billion school selection initiative on Saturday.
The signing took place outside the Governor’s Mansion in Austin around 2 PM, with a crowd that included enthusiastic students applauding behind him. At least one local TV station broadcasted the event live.
“Families are no longer restricted to schools appointed by the government,” Abbott remarked just before signing the bill. “Today marks the beginning of parents having the choice for the best educational options for their children.”
This new legislation will assist parents in covering tuition and related expenses at accredited private institutions. It will take effect on September 1, and the program is anticipated to launch in late 2026.
The journey toward establishing school choice in Texas has been lengthy and often contentious within state politics.
After a previous failure, accompanied by political pressure and remarks from President Donald Trump, Abbott successfully pushed this initiative—a key priority for him—over the finish line.
Opponents, including some Democrats and rural Republicans, contend that the program would negatively impact already struggling public schools, which serve as vital resources for many families, particularly those with lower incomes.
State Senator Brandon Clayton (R), who authored Law SB 2, labeled these criticisms as “manufactured.”
“There are 74 school choice programs operational across 34 states. Data shows this leads to improved student performance, enhanced safety, and better preparation for college,” he noted in a post-poll interview.
Most families involved will receive about 85% of the funding allocated to each student in public schools, which amounts to roughly $10,300 to $10,900 per child annually, according to legislative analyses.
During his speech, Abbott highlighted the struggles of families with children needing specialized care that may not be adequately provided in some public schools.
Students with disabilities can access the same funds as other students, plus an additional $30,000 based on the state’s expenditures for their special education needs if they attend public schools. Homeschooling families can receive up to $2,000 each year.
These funds will be distributed to families through educational savings accounts, which essentially serve as state-managed bank accounts.
