Overview

• The House Ways and Means Committee approved a $5 billion annual school voucher program as part of the GOP-led budget reconciliation package.
• The proposal offers tax-credit-funded scholarships of approximately $5,000 per child for families earning under three times their local median income.
• Critics argue the program would undermine public schools, disproportionately benefit wealthy families, and lack oversight requirements for private institutions.
• Independent analysts estimate the program could cost $136 billion in public revenue over a decade, raising concerns about long-term fiscal impacts.
• If passed, the measure would establish a nationwide voucher system, including in states that have previously rejected similar initiatives.