Utah Fits All Scholarship Program Continues Amid Court Appeal

A Utah judge has ruled the 'Utah Fits All' school choice scholarship program unconstitutional, citing its limited accessibility and diversion of public education funds, but decided not to halt the program while the case is appealed to the Utah Supreme Court. Judge Laura Scott declined to issue an injunction, allowing the program to continue operating and for parents to apply for scholarships and teachers to receive salary increases linked to the program. Both the state and the Utah Education Association (UEA) agreed that the Supreme Court will make the final decision, and the parties believe a quick resolution is in everyone's interest. The judge’s ruling addressed only part of the UEA's claims, leaving other issues moot unless the Supreme Court reverses her decision. Meanwhile, key program deadlines and the distribution of funds will proceed as scheduled, pending the higher court's ruling. The UEA remains confident in its challenge, emphasizing that public funds should stay with public schools.