AFC-TX Applauds Texas Senate Passage of Education Savings Account Legislation

AUSTIN – The American Federation for Children – Texas (AFC-TX) today applauded the Texas Senate for passing Senate Bill 8, which will enhance educational opportunities for students across the State of Texas. The legislation, authored by Chairman Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe), will establish an Education Savings Account (ESA) program that provides parents with $8,000 each year to send their child to a school that best fits their needs. Under the legislation, approximately 85% of Texas students would qualify for ESAs.

Following the passage of Senate Bill 8 by an 18-13 vote in the Senate chamber, AFC-TX Spokesman Nathan Cunneen issued the following statement:

“Today’s passage of Senate Bill 8 is an important step in delivering the educational choice that Texas students deserve. Thanks to the tireless work of Chairman Creighton, Lieutenant Governor Patrick and parent advocates across the state, more than 5.5 million Texas students are now closer to having school choice options that will empower families to enroll their children in the school to best meet their needs. We look forward to seeing the largest school choice program in the nation advance through the Texas House and onto Governor Abbott’s desk.”

Additionally, Cunneen issued the following statement following the narrow passage of an amendment by Rep. Abel Herrero (D-Robstown) to the Texas House budget that would prevent state funds from being used to provide educational choice for Texas students:

“While we are disappointed in today’s vote, we are encouraged by the progress that school choice advocates have made. Next week, the House Public Education Committee will hear school choice legislation for the first time in over a decade, and we look forward to hearing from Texas families on the urgent need to deliver educational choice for their children.”

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