Bill > HB1489

This bill establishes the Lifeline Scholarship Program, a new educational initiative in Pennsylvania designed to provide scholarships to eligible students from low-achieving schools or low-income households to attend participating nonpublic schools. Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, the program will allow parents of eligible students (those who meet specific residency, income, and school attendance criteria) to apply for scholarships that can be used to pay tuition, school-related fees, and special education services fees at participating nonpublic schools. The State Treasury will administer the program, creating individual scholarship accounts for recipients with varying funding amounts based on the student's grade level and special needs status. For the first year, scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to continuing students in subsequent years. The program is funded by a $350 million annual transfer from the General Fund and will be subject to annual reporting requirements. The bill includes detailed provisions about eligibility, application processes, account management, and oversight, with the Auditor General granted power to conduct random audits and investigate potential fraud. Participating nonpublic schools must meet specific certification requirements and comply with nondiscrimination policies to be eligible for the program.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1489