Gov. Greg Abbott has been pushing for education savings accounts, a school voucher-like program, since the Texas Legislature reconvened in January. The Republican governor held a rally in support of ESAs at Cornerstone Christian School over the weekend.
Abbott’s announcement comes exactly one week before the last day state lawmakers can pass any legislation during Texas' third special legislative session this year.According to the agreement outlined by Gov. Abbott, every student — including those enrolled in private and public schools — would be eligible to participate in the program. Each student would get about $10,4000 per year.Abbott’s expanded call also includes changes to statewide testing in public schools.
In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, Texas House Democratic Caucus Chairman Trey Martinez Fischer slammed Republicans for not deciding to include teacher pay raises until now.