Senate Advances New School Choice Opportunity

An omnibus bill, SB 7070, that includes a school-choice expansion measure was passed (5-3) by the Senate Education Committee. The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program would create a new taxpayer-funded scholarship program for low-income students to attend private schools that meet their educational needs. As outlined in the governor's State of the State Address, the proposal would help to alleviate a nearly 13,000-student waiting list for the longstanding Florida Tax Credit (FTC) Scholarship Program. 

Among those testifying in favor of the bill were Dasha Nixon and Theresa Day, two Catholic school parents whose families benefit from the FTC program. "I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all education system," said Theresa Day. "Every child is unique and can benefit from an education focused on what each individual needs."

The FCCB also voiced support for the bill during the committee hearing.