Bill > HB1140

This bill establishes the empowerED scholarship program, a school choice initiative that creates educational savings accounts for K-12 students in Washington state. The program provides scholarships to students, with priority given to those with special needs, low-income families, and students in underperforming schools, allowing parents to use funds for educational expenses such as private school tuition, home-based instruction, tutoring, educational technology, and other learning-related costs. The scholarship amounts range from $12,700 for students without disabilities to higher amounts for students with disabilities, with funding levels determined by family income. The bill introduces a tax credit program that allows businesses to receive a 100% tax credit for contributions to the scholarship fund, with a total annual credit limit of $300 million. The legislative intent emphasizes addressing perceived failures in the public education system, providing educational choice, and ensuring that funding follows students rather than being tied to specific schools. The program aims to give parents more flexibility in education options, particularly for families who cannot afford private schools or alternative education methods, and is designed to create competition that potentially improves overall educational outcomes. The Student Achievement Council will administer the program, and participating families must agree to specific terms, including maintaining documentation of educational expenses.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1140&Year=2025&Initiative=false