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SB 2598

School Vouchers - As introduced, expands eligibility for an education freedom scholarship to students who are enrolled in an out-of-district public school. - Amends TCA Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Southerland

Expands Tennessee education scholarships to out-of-district public school students, potentially redirecting state funding away from current school placements.

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/20/2026
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Bill Summary · SB 2598

Legislative bill overview

SB 2598 expands Tennessee's education freedom scholarship program to include students currently enrolled in out-of-district public schools. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 49 (education law) to broaden eligibility beyond the program's current parameters. This would allow families whose children attend public schools outside their home district to access scholarship funds for alternative educational options.

Why is this important

Education funding follows students through voucher and scholarship programs, directly affecting school district budgets and potentially influencing where families choose to send their children. The expansion could impact both well-funded and under-resourced districts differently, depending on which students utilize the scholarships. This touches on fundamental questions about public education financing, school choice, and equity across districts.

Potential points of contention

  • District funding impact: Removing students (and their associated funding) from out-of-district placements could create budget pressures for sending districts that lose students while receiving less revenue
  • Access and equity concerns: Questions about whether out-of-district students have equal information access to scholarships and whether this primarily benefits families with resources to pursue out-of-district enrollment initially
  • Program cost and scope: Expanding eligibility increases overall program costs; unclear whether funding mechanisms exist or if this diverts resources from other education initiatives

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

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