Idaho’s House Bill 93: Expanding School Choice or Undermining Public Education?

Idaho Governor Brad Little recently signed House Bill 93 into law, introducing a $50 million Parental Choice Tax Credit program. This legislation offers refundable tax credits up to $5,000 per student for private schooling or homeschooling expenses, increasing to $7,500 for special needs students.

House Bill 93 was introduced to expand educational choice in Idaho by providing financial support for private schooling, homeschooling, and other non-public education expenses. It aims to make alternative education more accessible through refundable tax credits, particularly for low- and middle-income families, while promoting competition and innovation in education.

Key Facts:

• Parents of homeschooled or private school students can receive up to $5,000 to cover expenses such as tuition, fees, tutoring, textbooks, curriculum, and transportation. For special needs students, this amount increases to $7,500.
• Governor Little emphasized that Idaho can support both strong public schools and educational freedom, asserting that providing high-quality education remains a top priority.​
• Critics, including Idaho’s Democratic legislators, argue that this measure may divert essential funds from public schools, potentially undermining their quality and accessibility.

How Will House Bill 93 Affect Funding Allocation and Public School Resources?

The diversion of taxpayer dollars to private and homeschooling expenses raises questions about public school funding. Critics argue that such measures could reduce the resources available to public schools, particularly in rural areas where educational alternatives are limited. This shift may strain public school budgets, affecting their ability to maintain facilities, hire qualified staff, and provide extracurricular programs.

Will it Impact Educational Outcomes and Resource Availability?

Comparing academic performance between public schools and those benefiting from the new tax credits is essential. While private and homeschooling environments may offer tailored educational experiences, public schools provide standardized curricula and extracurricular activities. The reallocation of funds could widen the gap in resource availability, potentially impacting the quality of education for students remaining in the public system.

Does House Bill 93 Promote Educational Equity or Widen Disparities?

The bill’s implementation raises equity concerns, especially for low-income and rural communities. Although the tax credit is available to all families, those earning less than 300% of the federal poverty level receive priority. However, critics argue that this may still not fully address disparities, as families in rural areas might have limited access to private schooling options, thereby not benefiting equally from the program.​

What Are the Long-Term Implications of House Bill 93 on Public Education Infrastructure?

The long-term effects on public education infrastructure and teacher workforce stability are significant considerations. A sustained diversion of funds could lead to decreased investments in public school facilities and resources, potentially resulting in school closures or consolidations. Moreover, reduced funding might affect teacher salaries and job security, leading to challenges in attracting and retaining qualified educators within the public system.