School vouchers just got a big thumbs up from the Tennessee House of Representatives. This means that public money can now be used for private school expenses. The vote was pretty close, with 54 in favor and 44 against. There was also a small change to the bill. This change means that local school boards have to say "yes" to the new voucher system for teachers to get a one-time $2, 000 bonus.

The bill is now on its way to the Senate to be looked at, and if it passes, it will likely become a law soon. There was some confusion about votes. Justin Pearson, a lawmaker from Memphis, accidentally voted in favor of the bill and later changed his vote to "no. "

In East Tennessee, the votes were mixed. Some representatives, like Ed Butler and Michele Carringer, voted "yay, " while others, like Fred Atchley and Jody Barrett, voted "nay. " There was also a representative who did not vote at all.

But what does this bill really do? It lets families use public money for private school costs. Schools must be accredited, and students need to meet certain rules to be part of the program. Families could get around $7, 000 in scholarships, depending on the needs of each student.

This bill has caused some controversy. Many school districts across the state have said "no" to vouchers. Some people are calling it the "school's choice" bill, while others see it as a way to take money from public schools. Some people also claim that the bill is unethical as it takes money from the poor and gives it to the rich. The proposal also includes a one-time $2, 000 bonus for teachers and uses money from lottery and sports betting taxes to help public school buildings. However, this program could cost the state around $350 million in the first year.

The bill passed with an amendment that gives local school boards the power to decide if teachers get the $2, 000 bonuses. The amendment states that local boards of education and the governing body of local charter schools would have to pass "a resolution affirming that the LEA would like to participate in Section 4 of the Education Freedom Act of 2025" to get the bonuses.

Vouchers are a hot topic nationwide. Some people think they give families more choices, while others worry they might hurt public schools.

There are plenty of reasons to be concerned about this bill. It could change how education is funded in Tennessee. It could also mean fewer resources for public schools, which might affect the quality of education for many students. But it's also important to think about the potential benefits. Some families might get better educational opportunities. Plus, the program could help public school infrastructure with the money from lottery and sports betting taxes.

It's a big decision with lots of different viewpoints.  As the bill moves forward, it will be interesting to see how this all plays out.  Will the Senate approve the bill? And if so, what will Governor Bill Lee do?

TENNESSEE HOUSE

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