Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs $1 billion school voucher bill

Texas Governor Greg Abbott is set to sign Senate Bill 2, a landmark $1 billion school voucher bill, establishing Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) to help families pay for private school tuition, homeschooling, and related expenses. The program, capped at 100,000 students in its first year, provides up to $10,000 per student annually, with higher amounts for students with disabilities and smaller grants for homeschoolers. Priority for accounts will be given to students with disabilities and lower-income families, with wealthier families considered if slots remain. Supporters, including religious leaders and Republican lawmakers, argue the bill increases educational choice and empowers parents, while critics, including Texas Democrats and education advocates, warn it could divert crucial funds from public schools and disproportionately benefit wealthier families. The bill's passage marks a significant political victory for Abbott after previous legislative failures. Legal challenges from opponents are expected as the measure moves forward.