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Bill

LC 1426

Provide for education freedom accounts act

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill would redirect public education funding to student-controlled accounts for private school, homeschooling, and alternative education services instead of traditional public schools.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 1426

Legislative bill overview

LC 1426 would establish Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) in Montana, allowing parents to redirect public education funding to alternative educational options including private schools, homeschooling, tutoring, and other approved services. The bill creates a system where eligible students' per-pupil education funding follows the student rather than staying within traditional public school districts.

Why is this important

This policy fundamentally shifts how education funding works in Montana, potentially affecting school district budgets, parental choice in education, and access to non-traditional learning options. The outcome would impact both public school finances and educational opportunities available to families across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Public school funding impact: Removing per-pupil funding from traditional public schools could strain district budgets, particularly in rural areas where alternative options are limited, potentially widening educational equity gaps
  • Accountability and oversight: Questions about how EFA-funded alternative providers (especially private schools and homeschooling) would be monitored for educational quality, safety, and financial responsibility
  • Eligibility and access: Determining which students qualify and ensuring lower-income families can actually access alternative options (private schools still charge tuition; transportation to alternatives may be limited)

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

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