Voucher programs approved in Arizona
08/08/06 -- The Arizona legislature has approved a budget bill creating two small voucher programs, and Gov. Janet Napolitano agreed to sign the measure in return for gaining approval for all-day kindergarten and a pay raise for teachers.
One program is the first in the United States to provide vouchers to foster children. This $2.5 million program will provide vouchers worth about $3,000 to $4,000 for private school tuition.
The other voucher program, also totaling $2.5 million, will enable children with disabilities to attend private schools. The amount of each voucher would depend on the needs of the child. Florida, Ohio, and Utah also have voucher programs for disabled students.
These programs are small, but public education advocates are concerned that once a voucher program is approved, it’s more likely to be expanded rather than terminated.
Pro-voucher lobbyist Sydney Hay of Arizonians for School Choice told the Arizona Daily Star that the programs set a precedent for additional voucher programs, noting, “It’s an important first step.”
The Arizona legislature also doubled funding -- from $5 million to $10 million -- for a new corporate tuition tax credit program authorized a few months ago to pay for private school tuition.
Companies that contribute to school tuition organizations can claim dollar-for-dollar credits to reduce their state taxes.
The organizations will use the funds to award vouchers to students for private schools. The vouchers are worth $4,200 this school year for K-8 students and $5,500 for high school students. Arizona already has a tuition tax credit program for individuals.
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