North Dakota’s House on Thursday passed a so-called “voucher” bill that would give state money to some families who send their children to private school.
As passed, $10 million in tuition assistance would be set aside for the 2024-25 school year. Families making up to $150,000 a year could qualify.
Debate lasted an hour.
Grand Forks Democratic Rep. Zac Ista said the bill sets a bad precedent.
“We’re going to have to … answer to our constituents: Do we value rental and housing assistance at the same level we do subsidizing private education?” Ista asked. “What about health care coverage, what about tax credits or the homestead tax credit? What about school lunches?”
Grand Forks Republican Rep. Claire Cory, a sponsor of the bill, said: “I don’t think this is a private vs. public debate. This is about students.”
She added: “This program begins and ends with parents and this is about families and helping the ones that need it mpst.”
The vote was 51-to-41 in favor. The Senate passed the bill earlier with some changes, so it had to be re-considered by the House.
There has been no indication as to whether Gov. Burgum will sign the legislation.
.
.
.
.
(KNOX / KFGO)
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
