Texas Senate sends universal school choice bill to Gov. Abbott for signature 

School choice is about to become law in Texas.

The Senate approved a universal school choice bill, SB 2, by a 19-12 vote on Thursday, after the House passed the measure earlier this month.

The legislation now goes to Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican who has campaigned strongly in support of school choice. 

The proposal calls for a $1 billion education savings account (ESA) program, which will grant scholarships of about $10,000 per year. Special needs students can receive up to $30,000, and homeschool students can qualify for up to $2,000.  

Priority will be given to low- and middle-income students, as well as those with special needs. 

Once signed into law, the program will be available for the 2026-2027 school year. It will be the largest “day one” school choice program in the nation. 

Nationally, 16 states including Texas have approved universal school choice programs, which are available to all students.