South Central PA News

Dec. 01, 2023 - In a move that has sparked controversy and debate, House Democrats have rejected funding for students in failing public schools in Pennsylvania. The disagreement over school funding has not only hindered the progress of the budget but has also put the future of students in underperforming schools at risk.

The issue arose when the budget bill, which had already been passed in the House in early June, was sent to the Senate for amendments. The Senate proposed including $100 million in lifeline scholarships that would allow students in failing schools to choose a different school. This provision had been agreed upon by Senate leaders and the governor.

However, upon its return to the House, the bill was flatly rejected by House Democrats. They view the scholarship program as a potential gateway to school choice, a concept strongly opposed by teachers' unions. The bill ultimately passed after the governor promised to veto the scholarship language, contradicting his previous campaign pledge in support of school choice.

The removal of the scholarship language led to the insertion of additional funding into the existing Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs. These programs provide tax credits to businesses that offer scholarships to low-income families with children in failing schools. The scholarships give these students a chance for academic success in a school of their choice, something that is lacking in failing public schools.

However, when the bill returned to the House, Democrat leaders once again stripped out the funding for the educational tax credit programs. This decision has drawn criticism from Representative Dan Moul, who stated, "I can think of little that is more important than our children's education... Democrats in the House, and the teachers' unions that support them, have opted instead to protect the status quo."

The rejection of funding for students in failing public schools is seen as a missed opportunity to provide these children with a chance for success. By refusing to support alternative options, House Democrats are depriving students in failing school districts of their best opportunity for academic achievement.

The debate over school funding continues to divide lawmakers and education advocates. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the future of students in Pennsylvania's poorest, underperforming schools.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.repmoul.com/News/33228/Press-Releases/House-Democrats-Reject-Funding-for-Students-in-Failing-Public-Schools