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Governor Greg Abbott has signed Senate Bill 2 into law, implementing a significant school choice program in Texas. The legislation, described as the largest of its kind in the country from day one, aims to provide Texas families with the ability to select the educational pathway that best suits their children's needs. The signing ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin was attended by numerous Texas parents, students, educators, and school choice supporters.
Governor Abbott remarked, “When I ran for re-election in 2022, I promised Texans that we will bring education freedom to every Texas family. Today, Texas delivers on that promise.” He credited various officials and advocates for their efforts in making this initiative a reality, including Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, and Chairman Brandon Creighton.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, a longtime advocate for school choice, hailed the signing of Senate Bill 2 as a major policy victory. “With Senate Bill 2 signed into law, Texas parents will now be able to choose the best educational environment for their children,” he said. Patrick expressed gratitude towards his colleagues for helping pass the bill this legislative session.
Speaker Dustin Burrows emphasized the bill's potential impact, stating, “School choice, paired with the House’s additional proposal to initiate the largest increase in public education funding in Texas history, will elevate the overall quality of our educational system.”
Chairman Brandon Creighton elaborated on the significance of the Texas Education Freedom Act, saying it represents a pivotal shift in Texas education policy. Chairman Brad Buckley echoed similar sentiments, noting the opportunities this law opens for parents and their children.
The bill introduces an Education Savings Account program, enabling eligible students to channel funds toward preapproved educational services, including private school tuition and instructional materials. The initiative is set to receive $1 billion in funding for the 2026-2027 school year.
Director Joel Enge and advocate Shinara Morrison, both supporters of the bill, shared their satisfaction with the new law. Enge highlighted how the program addresses long-standing issues in underserved communities, while Morrison noted its potential to empower families of varied economic backgrounds to choose suitable educational options.
Senate Bill 2 was backed by significant legislative figures and has set the stage for a substantial transformation in the education landscape in Texas.