Texas Senator Ted Cruz will introduce the Universal School Choice Act, a bill proposing $10 billion in annual federal tax credits for donations to nonprofits that fund K-12 scholarships for public and private schools. Cruz stated that “school choice is the civil rights issue of the 21st century,” emphasizing that all children deserve quality, individualized education regardless of background. He urges his colleagues to promptly advance the legislation.
These scholarships could cover tuition, books, tutoring, dual enrollment, and other school-related costs, including expenses for religious schools and homeschooling, but not payments to family members. Tax credits directly reduce tax liability, differing from tax deductions that lower taxable income.
School choice has become a key Republican priority, reflecting the party’s focus on parental rights in education, encompassing issues like LGBTQ+ rights, religion, COVID-19 policies, and curriculum content. Texas recently joined other states in offering publicly funded private school vouchers after legislative debate. Supporters argue such programs expand educational options for families with fewer financial constraints. Conversely, critics contend that funding should prioritize improving public schools. The Texas Public Policy Foundation, a proponent of the Texas voucher program, supports Cruz’s bill.