yes. every k⁠i⁠d. applauds Texas House passage of un⁠i⁠versal educa⁠t⁠⁠i⁠on freedom

April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025

Program would be the largest-ever launch of an education savings account program in the U.S. 

Today, the Texas House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 2, a major step toward delivering universal education freedom to families throughout the Lone Star State.

Why it matters: 

  • Universal education freedom has swept the country, and passage of this bill puts Texas on the verge of joining this movement and creating the nation’s largest program. 
  • Every Texas student deserves to learn in an environment that fits them. And families agree—77 percent of Texas voters support education freedom, regardless of income or ZIP code.  

What we’re saying: 

Tiffany Barfield, government affairs director at yes. every kid.: 

“Texas just took a major step toward putting families in charge. Lawmakers listened to what Texans have been saying loud and clear: every kid deserves options. We’re especially grateful to Governor Abbott, Speaker Burrows, Chairman Creighton, and Chairman Buckley for their leadership in making this happen. We look forward to seeing this bill signed into law.” 

What’s in the bill: 

  • Eligibility: All Texas K-12 students, and certain pre-K students who meet criteria like low-income or foster care status, are eligible for the program. 
  • Priority: Given to low-income families, students with disabilities, and siblings. 
  • Funding:
    • $2,000 for homeschoolers 
    • Estimated $10,000 for students in approved education environments (85% of per-pupil maintenance & operations cost) 
    • Up to $30,000 for students with disabilities  

How it works: 

  • Oversight: Administered by the Texas Comptroller 
  • Timeline: Program launches in fall 2026 
  • Budget: $1 billion in FY 2027—making Texas the largest ESA rollout in U.S. history 
  • Eligible uses: Tuition, tutoring, testing, therapy, transportation, tech, and much more 
  • Support: Families, if needed, will have access to up to five approved organizations to navigate applications, payments, and customer service 
  • Transparency: Annual reports will ensure spending accountability and transparency 

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