Texas Senate committee advances SB2, the "Education Freedom" bill, after hours of testimony

The Senate Education K–16 committee advanced Senate Bill 2, the Texas Education Freedom Act, after a long hearing that included hours of invited and public testimony both for and against the proposal. Chairman Brandon Creighton laid out the bill as a universal education savings account (ESA) plan that would initially set aside $200 million for a universal launch and an additional $800 million targeted to students with disabilities and students from households at or below specified poverty thresholds. Creighton described a multi‑tier ESA: a $2,000 minimum for unaccredited choices, a $10,000 award for students enrolling in accredited private schools, and a modest increase for students with disabilities, with administrative oversight assigned to the comptroller’s office and anti‑fraud controls included.

The committee adopted its proposed committee rules by unanimous consent. Members then heard prolonged debate and more than three hours of invited and public testimony. Proponents — including national choice groups, state affiliates, faith‑based school representatives, and some parents — said ESAs expand access for families currently shut out of other options and cited research they presented showing long‑term benefits in states with longstanding programs. Witnesses from private and sectarian schools, and organizations such as the Texas…