AFC Celebrates North Dakota for Passing School Choice Bill

Dallas, Texas – The American Federation for Children celebrates North Dakota’s legislature for passing a bill establishing the state’s first private school choice program, an education savings account (ESA) sponsored by Rep. Ben Koppelman, after the House concurred with Senate changes to HB 1540. The legislature is still considering SB 2400 by Senator Axtman, which could further expand educational options in North Dakota.

The legislature has advanced a bill to establish an ESA program beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill is on its way to the Governor for his consideration. If enacted, it would provide more than $4,000 to eligible participants.

Statement from Ryan Cantrell, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Federation for Children

“AFC congratulates Rep. Ben Koppelman, along with leaders in the North Dakota House and Senate, upon sending HB 1540 to the Governor’s desk. Most of all, we congratulate the parents and students across the state who may soon have access to expanded education freedom. This bill empowers North Dakota families to select the best educational options for their children and unlocks private school choice for the first time in the state, and we look forward to North Dakota joining the school choice revolution that is rapidly expanding across the country.”

Details:

• ESAs would be available for students for the 2026-27 school year.
• Private school students would be eligible for an ESA with award amounts determined by income levels, with more than $4000 for families making less than 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL), more than $2300 for families between 200% and 400% FPL, and more than $1150 for families over 400% of FPL.
• Qualified educational expenses could include tuition, textbooks, tutoring, transportation and more.

About AFC:

The American Federation for Children is the nation’s largest school choice advocacy organization and the most successful force for education freedom in America, passing over 200 laws across 31 states throughout our history. Our affiliated Super PAC, AFC Victory Fund, is the only nationwide Super PAC focused on advancing school choice.