Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that would allow states to use certain funds designated for elementary and secondary education to provide scholarships or vouchers for children of low-income families to attend private schools of their choosing.

Highlights:

• Amends title VI of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to allow states with parental choice school voucher programs to reserve an additional 15 percent of elementary and secondary school funding for the application of such programs.

• Requires parental choice programs to target families whose annual income does not exceed 185% of the federal poverty level ($30,340 for a family of four), and those living in sparsely populated areas.

• Calls upon the Comptroller General and the Secretary of Education to organize annual evaluations of parental choice programs.

• Prohibits the Secretary of Education from directing, supervising, or organizing the curriculum or administration of participating schools.

Full Bill Text

Full Bill Text