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Bill

HB 984

Relating to the establishment of an empowerment scholarship account program.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Steve Toth

Texas bill creates education savings accounts letting families use state funding for private schools, tutoring, and educational services instead of traditional public school enrollment.

Referred to Public Education
#education--primary&secondary--special(i0243) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #scholarships(s2123) #comptrollerofpublicaccounts(v2608) #educationagency #texas(v9941) #education #commissionerof(v9954) #education--primary&secondary--curriculum(i0228)
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Bill Summary · HB 984

Legislative bill overview

HB 984 establishes an empowerment scholarship account (ESA) program in Texas that would allow eligible students to receive education funding directly rather than through traditional public school allocations. The program would enable parents to use state education dollars for various educational expenses including private school tuition, tutoring, special education services, and other approved learning resources.

Why is this important

ESA programs represent a significant shift in how education funding flows—moving money from school districts to individual families. This affects school district budgets, enrollment patterns, and educational options available to Texas families, particularly those in lower-income brackets if income-based eligibility requirements exist. The program's design could influence both public school funding and the competitive landscape between public and private education providers.

Potential points of contention

  • School district funding impact: Removing per-pupil funding from public schools could strain district budgets, particularly in rural areas or districts already facing financial challenges
  • Equity and access concerns: Questions about whether the program adequately serves students with disabilities, English language learners, and disadvantaged populations who may have fewer private school options
  • Accountability and oversight: Unclear how the program ensures funds are spent appropriately and whether private providers accepting ESA funds face the same accountability measures as public schools
  • Implementation costs: Administrative expenses for managing individual accounts and determining eligibility may offset claimed savings

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

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