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SB 2247

Education - As introduced, increases, from 25,000 to 40,000, the maximum number of education freedom scholarships that may be awarded to eligible students in the 2026-2027 school year; directs the governor to elect for this state to participate in the federal education tax credit program created in The One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act and to comply with any and all requirements to maintain the state's participation in the program in the future. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

SB 2247 increases Tennessee education freedom scholarships to 40,000 students annually and mandates federal tax credit program participation with ongoing federal compliance requirements.

Companion House Bill substituted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2247

Legislative bill overview

SB 2247 expands Tennessee's education freedom scholarship program by increasing the maximum number of annual scholarships from 25,000 to 40,000 students for the 2026-2027 school year. The bill also directs the governor to enroll Tennessee in a federal education tax credit scholarship program, binding the state to comply with all federal requirements to maintain participation.

Why is this important

This legislation significantly expands school choice options by making scholarships available to 15,000 additional students, potentially reshaping how education funding flows in Tennessee. The federal tax credit program participation creates ongoing financial obligations and federal compliance requirements that will affect state education policy for years to come.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism unclear: The bill doesn't specify how the state will fund 60% more scholarships or what budget impacts this creates
  • Federal program strings: Mandating participation in a federal tax credit program ties Tennessee to federal requirements and potential future changes to that program's rules
  • Equity concerns: Scholarship expansion may benefit higher-income families more, as tax credit scholarships historically show income-skewed participation patterns
  • Private school oversight: Increased scholarships to private institutions raises questions about accountability, admissions practices, and special education service requirements
  • Public school funding: Redirecting education dollars to scholarships could reduce per-pupil funding for traditional public schools serving remaining students

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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