Federal School Voucher Program

SOURCE www.npr.org
Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee voted to include a $20 billion federal school voucher program in the broader reconciliation bill that would extend President Trump's 2017 tax cuts. The voucher program aims to help families pay for private school tuition across the U.S., but faces criticism from public school advocates and advocates for students with disabilities.

Key Points

  • The voucher program would be worth $20 billion over four years
  • Funding would come from private citizens making charitable donations
  • Most students in the U.S. could qualify for a voucher under the proposed plan
  • Critics argue that voucher programs have shown mixed academic results

Pros

  • Provides families with the ability to choose the best education for their child
  • Expands educational options for students, especially those from lower-income families

Cons

  • Weakens public education by diverting crucial funding to private institutions
  • May not protect students with disabilities as private schools are not bound by federal disability law