SC House OKs Expanded School Choice, Eyes Universal Access

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Republican-controlled South Carolina House passed S.62, the Education Scholarship Trust Fund bill, Thursday by an 80-32 vote, advancing a revamped school choice program designed to sidestep legal pitfalls that sank the previous effort. Originally enacted in 2023, the state's first Education Scholarship Account program offered $6,000 scholarships for private tuition, therapies and curricula but was halted by the state Supreme Court in September 2024, just weeks into the school year, stranding nearly 2,900 approved students. The new legislation, championed in the Senate and amended by the House, boosts scholarships to $7,500 and sets 10,000 available for the 2025-26 school year, rising to at least 15,000 annually thereafter, with numbers adjustable by demand.

Key House amendments shift funding from lottery revenue to the general fund, held by an independent trustee appointed by State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver, ensuring no direct state disbursement to avoid court challenges. Income eligibility starts at 300% of the federal poverty level for 2025-26 — $96,450 for a family of four — expanding to 500% or $160,750 the next year, covering 85% of students. By 2027-28, House changes eliminate income caps if fully funded, paving the way for universal school choice across districts from rural Dillon County to urban Richland. Priorities favor siblings of current recipients, active-duty military families and prior public school attendees.

The bill returns to the Senate for concurrence on House tweaks, after which it heads to Gov. Henry McMaster, who signed the original law and supports expansion. Last year's program raised $2.5 million privately for 800 students after the court ruling, highlighting parental demand in a state where public schools serve over 770,000 K-12 students. Proponents argue it empowers families in underperforming districts; critics worry it diverts public funds, though the measure clarifies annual General Assembly appropriations.