Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Tim Scott have reintroduced the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a legislative proposal aimed at expanding educational opportunities for students across the United States. The bill, supported by 24 Republican colleagues, seeks to provide incentives for charitable donations from individuals and businesses to fund scholarships covering expenses related to K-12 public and private education.

"Parents want to see their child succeed. Giving them the ability to make decisions over their child’s education puts that child’s needs first," stated Dr. Cassidy.

Senator Scott added, "When you give parents a choice, you give kids a better chance at achieving their dreams."

The legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Adrian Smith. He emphasized the importance of providing students with diverse educational options: "Giving students a brighter future, no matter their background or address, is critical to move American K-12 education forward."

Under the ECCA, approximately two million students from various educational settings, including homeschoolers, could be eligible for scholarships. These scholarships can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment necessary for attending elementary or secondary schools.

The bill has garnered support from numerous entities and individuals including former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and other notable figures in education policy. Over 150 national and state groups have endorsed the act.

Anthony de Nicola of Invest in Education Coalition praised the initiative: "School choice empowers parents... I applaud Senator Cassidy for reintroducing the Educational Choice for Children Act in the Senate."