North Carolina Republicans Override Veto to Expand Private School Voucher Program
The Opportunity Scholarship Program will see a boost, with funding set to reach $825 million annually by 2032-2033. Voucher funds cannot be used for homeschooling or for-profit virtual schools.
Holly Springs, NC, Nov. 19, 2024 — On November 18, 2024, North Carolina Republicans overrode Democratic Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of House Bill 823, titled the "Choose Your School, Choose Your Future Act." Sponsored by Rep. Tricia Cotham (R-Mecklenburg), the legislation significantly increases funding for the Opportunity Scholarship Program. It introduces additional resources for children with disabilities through the North Carolina Personal Education Student Accounts program.
The legislation allocates $248 million in nonrecurring funds and $215.5 million in recurring funds from the General Fund for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. It aims to eliminate waitlists and expand access to private school vouchers, reflecting a broader push for school choice in North Carolina.
Details of the Funding and Allocations
The Opportunity Scholarship Program will see a substantial boost, with funding set to reach $825 million annually by 2032-2033, up from its 2023-2024 allocation of $176.5 million. The program removes income caps by 2026-2027, making all students eligible for up to $6,492 per year for private school tuition and fees. These funds will come from the state's Education Reserve and are intended to support increasing applicants.
Additionally, the North Carolina Personal Education Student Accounts for Children with Disabilities Program will receive an increase of $24.7 million in recurring funds for 2024-2025, with annual growth projected to reach $82.6 million by 2032-2033. This program provides individualized educational support for children with disabilities.
Stipulations and Provisions
Accountability: Private schools receiving funds must submit financial audits and reports on student performance but are not required to meet public school curriculum or standardized testing standards.
Prohibited Uses: Voucher funds cannot be used for homeschooling or for-profit virtual schools.
Long-Term Funding: Appropriations for both programs are structured to grow annually, ensuring sustained support for families and educational institutions.
Impact on the General Education Budget
The recurring costs for the Opportunity Scholarship Program and Personal Education Accounts are projected to represent a growing share of North Carolina's education budget, with approximately 7% allocated to the voucher program alone by 2026. Critics argue this reallocation could exacerbate challenges in public schools, including overcrowding and resource shortages.
Public Reaction and Future Implications
Advocates of the legislation argue it provides families greater flexibility and access to quality education, particularly in underserved areas. However, opponents raise concerns about the impact on public school funding and the lack of accountability for private institutions.
Effective July 1, 2024, the bill reflects a broader trend of prioritizing school choice initiatives in state education policy. As the program expands, its long-term effects on North Carolina's education system will be closely monitored.
How to Get Involved
Residents can review the full text of House Bill 823 on the North Carolina General Assembly website and contact their representatives to share their opinions on the program's implications.
NC House of Representatives: (919) 733-7928
NC Senate: (919) 733-4111
Engagement from the public remains critical as the state navigates the challenges and opportunities of expanding school choice programs.