Senate committee tables Education Freedom Account Act after heated debate over vouchers and equity

Senate Bill 286, the Education Freedom Account Act, which would create means-tested education accounts for families up to 200% of the federal poverty level to pay private-school and other qualifying education expenses, was tabled by the Senate Education Committee after extended debate and public testimony.

Sponsor supporters framed the bill as a targeted school-choice option for economically disadvantaged students. An expert witness who worked in PED policy emphasized New Mexico’s low NAEP scores and argued families need more options. Supporters who testified by phone and in-person included parent advocates, charter and private-school proponents, and organizations such as Freedom Families United and New Mexico Family Action Movement. Several speakers said the program would expand educational opportunity for low-income families who otherwise cannot afford alternatives.

Opponents included AFT New Mexico, the New Mexico School Boards Association, and the Coalition of Educational Leaders, who urged rejection. They argued the proposal would divert public funds to private schools, lacked adequate accountability and transparency, and risked hurting small rural public schools. School-board and teacher-union witnesses cited research and financial concerns about voucher-like programs in other states. Several committee members voiced similar concerns—particularly the effect on small rural districts and the administrative burden of verifying eligibility and monitoring private providers.

Committee debate covered constitutionality questions raised in the attorney general’s office about the use of public funds at religious or sectarian schools; the sponsor’s counsel cited recent U.S. Supreme Court precedent on funding neutrality and religious schools. Members also asked about parental engagement requirements, transportation, special education access and how many private providers actually operate in rural counties. The committee ultimately voted to table the bill (motion to table prevailed 6–3 on roll call) and the sponsor indicated willingness to continue working with stakeholders.