Competing Proposals Could Shape Future of Education Funding in Idaho
The Idaho Legislature is making waves with two new private school funding proposals introduced this week, each offering a unique approach to expanding access to private education. On January 22, 2025, lawmakers unveiled a pair of bills—one in the House and one in the Senate—that could significantly alter the landscape of private school choice in the state. As the debate heats up, both bills aim to address the growing demand for private education options, but they come with differing mechanisms for funding and implementation.
House Bill: A $50 Million Tax Credit for Private Education
The first bill, which cleared the House Revenue and Taxation Committee on Wednesday, is a proposal for a $50 million tax credit program designed to cover private school expenses. This bill, sponsored by Rep. Wendy Horman (R-Idaho Falls) and Senate Majority Leader Lori Den Hartog (R-Meridian), would make non-public school students eligible for up to $5,000 in state funds to cover tuition, tutoring, curriculum, and other education-related costs.
Under the proposed bill, families earning 300% or less of the federal poverty limit—roughly $93,600 annually for a family of four—would be prioritized for the funds. Special-needs students could qualify for up to $7,500 in support. Additionally, the bill allows for a one-time advance payment in the first year, offering families some immediate relief for education expenses.
Rep. Horman made it clear that the bill’s intent is to empower families with more educational choices without diminishing the quality of public education. She stated, “The reason I ran for elected office in the first place was because I care about the education of every child, no exceptions… School choice policies provide families with new opportunities, while taking no existing opportunities away.” Horman’s words reflect a broader belief that school choice can coexist with the public school system and provide families with greater flexibility.
The $50 million tax credit could significantly reduce the financial barriers for families looking to send their children to private schools. With Idaho’s rising cost of living, particularly in urban areas like Boise, these funds could offer much-needed support for parents considering alternatives to public education.
Senate Bill: Expanding the Empowering Parents Program
Meanwhile, the Idaho Senate introduced a second proposal that would direct $20 million to expand the state’s existing Empowering Parents program. This program, launched in 2022, has been a major initiative aimed at providing financial support for educational expenses such as private school tuition. Under the new bill, the program would be expanded to cover tuition costs for private schools, opening up additional options for families seeking alternatives to public education.
Like the House proposal, this bill reflects a growing desire among Idahoans for more choices in education. However, it’s a more targeted approach compared to the broader scope of the House bill. By building on an existing program, the Senate’s proposal seeks to streamline the process and provide immediate funding to families who qualify.
While both proposals address the same issue—the rising demand for private school options—they take different routes to achieve similar goals. The House bill, with its larger price tag, casts a wider net by offering a tax credit to families across the state. On the other hand, the Senate bill aims to expand an already established program, adding more funding for tuition costs while keeping the eligibility criteria relatively narrow.
Competing for Governor’s Support
Despite their differences, both proposals will need the approval of Governor Brad Little, who has signaled support for private school choice but has emphasized the importance of fairness and accountability in such initiatives. During his State of the State address earlier this month, Little stated that he would sign a $50 million private school choice bill—provided it is “fair, responsible, transparent, and accountable.”
This endorsement raises questions about whether both bills can coexist or if they will compete for the same pot of money. Governor Little’s support is crucial for the success of either proposal, and his emphasis on accountability could push lawmakers to ensure that funds are used responsibly and efficiently. Whether or not both bills move forward may depend on how well they align with the governor’s vision for school choice and the broader educational landscape in Idaho.
Potential Impact on Idaho Families and Education
The introduction of these bills is part of a broader national conversation about the role of private schools in the public education system. Advocates for private school choice argue that these measures will provide families with more freedom and flexibility, allowing parents to choose the best educational setting for their children. Opponents, however, worry that such initiatives could divert funding away from public schools, further exacerbating disparities in education quality.
Supporters of the bills in Idaho point to growing demand for private school options as a driving force behind the legislative push. According to recent data, enrollment in private schools has steadily increased in the state, driven in part by dissatisfaction with public education options and the desire for more specialized curricula.
Ultimately, the passage of either or both of these bills could reshape Idaho’s education funding structure, with lasting implications for families and schools alike. As the debate continues, it’s clear that the issue of private school funding will remain a hot topic in the state for the foreseeable future.
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