Ohio Expands Opportunity with Senate Bill 89

November 20, 2020
Yesterday, the Ohio House of Representatives expanded opportunity for children and families in Ohio by passing SB 89, sponsored by Senator Matt Huffman. The bill now awaits Governor DeWine’s signature. Upon enactment, approximately 50% of students in Ohio will be eligible for a scholarship. 
Statement from John Schilling, President of the American Federation of Children:
“All families, regardless of income, should have options for their children’s education. Since 2005, Ohio‘s five school choice programs have empowered thousands of families to pursue high quality school options. We applaud Ohio lawmakers for putting children first and opening more doors of opportunity for families by expanding program eligibility. We are grateful to Senator Huffman for his bold leadership, as well as Speaker Cupp and Senate President Obhof.”
Statement from Eric Frank, Chairman and President of School Choice Ohio:
“Every child deserves the opportunity to attend a school that works for them. These changes build on Ohio’s reputation as a national leader in providing school choice to students. At a time when education systems have been upended nationally, Ohio’s EdChoice expansion puts control of education where it should be, in the hands of Buckeye parents and students. ”
Details:
SB 89 expands eligibility for the Income-based Scholarship Program from 200% of the Federal Poverty Level to 250%.
In the 2019-2020 school year, more than 12,000 students in Ohio participated in the program.
Nearly 500 schools in Ohio participate in the program and the average scholarship amount is over $4,200.