BOISE, Idaho — House Bill 93, a proposed measure to establish a $50 million parental choice tax credit, has successfully passed both the Idaho House and Senate. The bill passed the Senate on Wednesday, 20-15, and is now headed to Gov. Brad Little to either sign or veto.
Proponents of the bill claim it will broaden educational prospects for families, allowing them to tailor education for their child's unique needs to align with their beliefs.
The tax credits could help cover costs of private school or homeschooling, including reimbursements for tuition, textbooks, or even transportation.
According to the bill's statement of purpose, it aims to assist Idaho parents in guiding their children's education while ensuring that nonpublic schools maintain their independence from government regulation.
"I believe that they have a right to provide for their child with their hard-earned dollars the education that fits them the best," said Senator Christy Zito (R).
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However, the measure has faced significant opposition. Critics of the bill have argued that redirecting public funds to alternative education could harm already underfunded public schools.
Those who oppose the bill also argue it will lead to a lack of transparency and accountability, when it comes to tracking where the up to $50 million will go.
"You cannot verify the money, now, we've heard people say 'oh it's accountable,' and you can dance around the edges, but you cannot get down to the root of this and find out where this money went. It is not transparent. It is not accountable," said Senator Kevin Cook (R).
House Bill 93 would establish refundable tax credits up to $5,000 per student or $7,500 for special-needs students, targeting families with incomes up to three times the federal poverty level.
The bill also comes in the wake of a statement from Gov. Little earlier this year, where he expressed his desire to enhance school choice for families. Little had recommended a $50 million investment to expand educational options in his State of the State address.
Immediately after the vote, the Idaho Education Association called on Governor Brad Little to veto the bill, saying in part the bill, "Ignores the governor's call for voucher legislation to be "fair, responsible, transparent and accountable" in the same ways public schools are accountable to elected officials, parents, and taxpayers," - Idaho Education Association
RELATED: Governor Brad Little outlines priorities in 2025 State of the State Address
H93 now awaits Gov. Little’s decision.
