Act Now: Oppose Public Funds Supporting Private Schools

Stop the Voucher Bills—Protect Idaho’s Public Schools!

HB93 and SB1025 are dangerous school voucher bills that threaten the future of Idaho’s public education system. These bills divert public taxpayer dollars to private schools and homeschools with little to no oversight—jeopardizing funding for the 90% of Idaho students who rely on public schools.

HB93: Refundable Tax Credits for Private School Costs

HB93 would allow families to claim up to $5,000 per student ($7,500 for a student with disabilities) for private school tuition, curriculum, and transportation—with minimal accountability (not even fingerprinting or background checks for educators!).

SB1025: Direct Vouchers to Private Schools

SB1025 expands the existing Empowering Parents program by offering grants of $5,000 per student, with a maximum of $15,000 per household. It’s scheduled to sunset in 2030. This bill relies on a tiered system for funding grants. 

• 75% goes to families making under $60,000
• 20% to those earning between $60,000 and $80,000
• 5% to families earning above $80,000.

SB1025 also requires more accountability and transparency pieces than it's counterpart in the House. 

Why You Should Be Concerned:

• Public Funds Diverted: These bills take taxpayer dollars away from public schools and other essential services, benefiting only 5% of families who choose private education.
• No Guarantees: Funding is first-come, first-served—meaning families hoping to use it might still be left out. And with an automatic review clause, spending could grow even larger.
• Limited Oversight & No Transparency: Private schools receiving funds under these bills do not have to meet state education standards or report student outcomes.
• Unfair & Discriminatory: Unlike public schools, private institutions can reject students based on academic performance, disabilities, or other factors—leaving the most vulnerable behind.

Take Action Now!

• Contact your legislators and urge them to VOTE NO on HB93 & SB1025. Ask them to keep public funds in public schools!
• Share this message with friends, family, and community members. Public schools belong to all of us—let’s stand together to protect them!