"Insights into Voucher Programs: Lessons from Other States and the Texas Debate"

The Texas Senate has approved Senate Bill 1, the main school voucher proposal for the special session, which closely resembles education savings account programs in Arizona and Florida. The bill aims to prevent fraud and misuse of funds by requiring the comptroller's office to audit participants' accounts, but it also lacks requirements for private schools to demonstrate academic success. Critics argue that the program diverts funding from public schools and benefits wealthier families. Similar programs in Arizona and Florida have faced financial challenges and criticism for loose financial oversight. Research on voucher programs has shown mixed results, with some studies indicating negative effects on student test scores.