Palmetto State News

U.S. Senators Tim Scott and Bill Cassidy have reintroduced the Educational Choice for Children Act, a bill aimed at expanding educational opportunities for students through increased school choice. The legislation, backed by 16 Republican senators, seeks to provide incentives for individuals and businesses to make charitable donations that fund scholarships covering K-12 education expenses.

Senator Scott emphasized the importance of providing families with more educational resources: "When you give parents a choice, you give kids a better chance at achieving their dreams." Dr. Cassidy added that empowering parents in educational decisions prioritizes children's needs: "More freedom empowers parents and allows American children to thrive in school."

The act targets approximately two million students across various educational settings, including homeschoolers. Scholarships can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment necessary for elementary or secondary education.

The bill has garnered support from several prominent figures and organizations such as former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr, and the Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. It is also endorsed by numerous conservative groups including the American Federation for Children (AFC), CatholicVote, and the Heritage Action for America.