Editor’s note: This article appeared last week on thecentersquare.com.
The House Education Committee advanced several school choice bills that would create education savings accounts parents can use for educational options outside of the public school system.
The committee voted along party lines to approve House bills 33, 194, 452, and 824 to create education savings accounts with the average per pupil state funding parents can use for tuition, tutoring, and educational services and supplies necessary to meet their child’s educational needs.
HB 33, sponsored by Rep. Phillip DeVillier, R-Eunice, would create an ESA program for children of military families, children in foster care and those attending schools with D and F ratings under the state accountability system.
HB 194, sponsored by Rep. Rhonda Butler, R-Ville Platte, would do the same for students with disabilities such as deafness, blindness, or autism. HB 452, sponsored by Rep. Barbara Freiberg, R-Baton Rouge, would extend ESAs as an option for students who have documented at least two instances of bullying, or any student who is the victim of sexual assault.
HB 824, sponsored by Rep. Laurie Schlegel, R-Jefferson, would provide ESAs as an option to all Louisiana students.
To continue reading, click here.
