Scott, Cassidy Introduce Bill to Provide $10 Billion in Scholarships Annually to Expand Access to School Choice

WASHINGTON – Last week, U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) introduced the Educational Choice for Children Act. This legislation would incentivize private investment in education and expand freedom and opportunity for millions of students.

“Ensuring the next generation of students receive a quality education is critical for the future of our communities, workforce and nation,” said Senator Scott. “A dollar-for-dollar tax credit allows individuals and businesses alike to invest in the lives of millions of American children.”

“Parents deserve the right to make the best educational decision for their child, regardless of income,” said Senator Cassidy. “Our bill empowers families to pick the school that best fits their children’s needs.”

Joining Senators Scott and Cassidy in introducing this legislation are Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Rick Scott (R-FL), Todd Young (R-Ind.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Katie Britt (R-AL).

Background:

The Educational Choice for Children Act provides $10 billion in annual tax credits to be made available to taxpayers. Allotment of these credits to individuals would be administered by the Treasury Department. Additionally, the bill:

• Sets a base amount for each state. The credits would be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Uses a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts.
• Includes provisions that govern Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), as SGOs are given the ability to determine the individual amount of scholarship awards.                                                                                       

An estimated two million students in any elementary or secondary education setting, including homeschooling, are eligible to receive a scholarship. Eligible use of scholarships awards includes tuition, fees, book supplies, and equipment for enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary school.

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