AFC Celebrates Gov. Brad Little Signing the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit into Law
Dallas, Texas – The American Federation for Children joins fellow education freedom advocates in celebrating Governor Little’s signing of the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit Thursday. This moment represents the culmination of years of work led by school choice champions in the legislature, educators across the state, and parents who boldly stood up for their children’s right to learn.
“Idaho can have it all – strong public schools AND education freedom. Providing high-quality education for Idaho students will always be our top priority,” Gov. Little said Thursday in a press release.
The $50 million Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit is the state’s first private school choice tuition program.
Statement from Ryan Cantrell, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Federation for Children
“A new day has dawned in Idaho as Gov. Brad Little has signed the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit into law – unleashing private school choice for the first time. Idaho leaders have taken action to provide families with the broadest range of education options they demanded, and we celebrate with them today.
“We deeply appreciate the heroic efforts of bill sponsors Senate Majority Leader Den Hartog, Representative Horman, House Majority Leader Monks, and Senator Grow. We are also grateful to Speaker Moyle, Chairman Cannon, and Chairman Ricks for their incredible leadership at crucial junctures in the process.
“Governor Little delivered on his promise to empower Idaho families to select the education option that best suits their children. We continue to work toward a future in which every family in the country can access school choice.”
Details:
- Who qualifies? All Idaho residents may apply, with lower-income families receiving priority
- What is covered? Eligible educational expenses could include kindergarten through twelfth grade private school tuition, tutoring, assessments related to college admission, textbooks, curriculum, and transportation
- When does the program begin? The program will become available for the 2025-2026 school year
- Where can families apply? The Idaho State Tax Commission will administer the program
- How much money is involved? Eligible students would receive up to $5,000 to offset qualified expenses; this amount increases to $7,500 for students who have a disability
- Why is this important? School choice empowers families to choose the educational setting that best aligns with their values and best fits their children’s needs, interests, and abilities
