U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Bill Cassidy, Tim Scott Champion Educational Freedom for American Families

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) led 23 of their Republican colleagues in introducing the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), bicameral legislation to expand educational freedom and opportunity for students and families.

The Educational Choice for Children Act was introduced during National School Choice Week, which runs from January 26 through February 1 this year. This legislation also comes as President Trump signed an executive order this week, titled “Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families,” to prioritize school choice programs by directing federal funds to support educational freedom for families.

“No child’s zip code should determine their opportunity to achieve the American Dream and reach their full potential,” said Senator Britt. “This legislation would put parents back in the driver’s seat to be empowered to make the best possible choice for their child’s education. I’ll continue to be a vocal advocate for educational freedom that equips families with the tools and resources to make important decisions for their children’s future.”

The Senators’ legislation would provide a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 education. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) introduced the companion legislation in the U.S House of Representatives. 

“Parents want to see their child succeed. Giving them the ability to make decisions over their child’s education puts that child’s needs first,” said Dr. Cassidy.“More freedom empowers parents and allows American children to thrive in school.”

Specifically, the Educational Choice for Children Act would provide $10 billion in annual tax credits to be made available to taxpayers and would be administered by the Treasury Department. The bill would also set a base amount for each state and then distribute the credits on a first-come, first-serve basis. Importantly, the bill uses a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts.

“When you give parents a choice, you give kids a better chance at achieving their dreams,” said Senator Scott.“By empowering families with more education resources and freedom, this bill will unlock opportunities that have been out of reach for students across America who deserve every chance to succeed and a schooling system that fosters their potential.”

This legislation also includes provisions that govern Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), who are given the ability to determine the individual amount of scholarship awards. An estimated two million students in any elementary or secondary education setting, including homeschool, are eligible to receive a scholarship. Eligible use of scholarships awards includes tuition, fees, book supplies, and equipment for the enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary school.

To read the full text of the bill, click here.

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