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President Donald Trump applauded two state-level school choice battles on Sunday, including efforts in Idaho and Wyoming.
The president shared his support in separate posts to his Truth Social account in favor of new legislation.
“Congratulations to Governor Brad Little, and Idaho Legislators, who are fighting to bring School Choice to their beautiful State. $50 Million Dollars to empower parents to provide the very best Education for their child – GREAT news for Idaho families. This Bill, which has my Complete and Total Support, MUST PASS!” Trump wrote.
The bill, HB 97 in the Idaho House, passed on Feb. 7 after a lengthy debate.
“The bill would create a refundable tax credit offering private school and home-school students up to $5,000 for tuition, tutoring, standardized test fees, curriculum, books, transportation and other education expenses. Students with special needs would qualify for up to $7,500. The credits would be capped at $50 million annually,” Idaho Ed News reported.
Trump also shared his support for school choice legislation in Wyoming.
“Congratulations to Patriot Senator Bo Biteman, of the Great State of Wyoming, for working to pass SCHOOL CHOICE, a top priority of my Administration, putting power where it belongs – PARENTS. This would be an incredible Victory for Wyoming students and families. Every Member of the Wyoming Senate should vote for HB 199. I will be watching!” he posted.
The bills follow success in Tennessee, where Gov. Bill Lee recently signed the Educational Freedom Act into law following years of effort to pass school choice legislation in the largely conservative state.
The Tennessee program offers families scholarships of approximately $7,000, based on each student’s unique needs and background. Funds can be used for tuition or related expenses, including class materials and equipment. Additionally, the program provided a one-time $2,000 bonus for teachers.
Trump signed an executive order defending parental rights and urging school choice on Jan. 30. The order emphasized “expanding educational freedom and opportunity for families. It recognizes that parents, not the government, play a fundamental role in choosing and directing the upbringing and education of their children,” according to a White House Fact Sheet.
