A Private School Choice Program Is Illegal, State Court Rules. What Comes Next?

Education savings accounts have hit a roadblock in South Carolina, as the state Supreme Court recently ruled that the Education Trust Fund Scholarship Program violates the state’s constitution. This program, signed into law by Governor Henry McMaster, provided up to $6,000 in state funds for various private education expenses for families who previously attended public schools and met certain income criteria.

The court’s 3-2 verdict stated that directing public funds to benefit private schools goes against the state constitution. This ruling came in response to a legal challenge by the South Carolina NAACP, the South Carolina Education Association, and six public school parents. Despite the efforts of advocates, the program has been halted, leaving many families in distress.

The decision has broader implications for private school choice programs in other states, as critics in Ohio, Utah, and Wisconsin are pursuing similar lawsuits. While the South Carolina case may not set a singular precedent, it adds to a growing list of states where private school choice programs have been overturned on constitutional grounds.

Despite this setback, many states continue to offer educational savings accounts to families. Alabama, Louisiana, and Wyoming are among the latest states to implement these programs. However, the legal battles over ESAs are far from over, and the future of such programs remains uncertain.

In South Carolina, advocates may seek to appeal the Supreme Court’s decision or propose a constitutional amendment to allow state funds to flow to private schools. However, history shows that such proposals face challenges, as voters have been hesitant to support school choice initiatives in the past.

As the debate over private school choice continues, it is clear that legal wrangling and political battles will shape the future of education savings accounts in South Carolina and beyond. The fate of these programs ultimately rests in the hands of lawmakers, advocates, and voters who must navigate the complex landscape of education policy and constitutional law. This November, voters in Colorado, Kentucky, and Nebraska will have the opportunity to weigh in on important issues that will impact their communities. Each state has its own unique set of ballot measures and candidates for various offices, giving voters the chance to make their voices heard.

In Colorado, voters will be deciding on a number of key issues, including measures related to taxes, education funding, and healthcare. One of the most closely watched races is the gubernatorial election, where candidates from both major parties are vying for the top spot. In addition, voters will have the chance to weigh in on local races and initiatives that will shape the future of the state.

In Kentucky, voters will be focusing on a range of issues, including education, healthcare, and economic development. The gubernatorial race is also a major point of interest, with candidates from both parties making their case to voters. In addition, voters will have the opportunity to decide on important local races and initiatives that will impact their communities.

In Nebraska, voters will be considering a variety of ballot measures, including issues related to property taxes, healthcare, and infrastructure. The gubernatorial race is another key focus, with candidates from both parties competing for the top spot. Like in the other states, voters in Nebraska will also have the chance to weigh in on local races and initiatives that will shape the future of their state.

Overall, the November elections in Colorado, Kentucky, and Nebraska are set to be crucial moments for these states. Voters will have the opportunity to make their voices heard on a range of important issues, from taxes and education to healthcare and infrastructure. It is important for all eligible voters to educate themselves on the candidates and ballot measures so they can make informed decisions at the polls.