PA Senate Advances School Vouchers for Failing Public Schools

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee voted 8-3 on Tuesday to advance Senate Bill 10, breathing new life into the push for a statewide school voucher program. The legislation establishes the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success Scholarship Program, offering scholarships from $2,500 to $15,000 per student to cover private school tuition and fees for those in low-achieving public schools. Democratic Sen. Anthony H. Williams crossed party lines to join Republicans in support, highlighting eligibility for Pennsylvania residents without high school diplomas living in boundaries of failing schools.[1][2] The bill, nearly identical to proposals defeated in prior years like the Lifeline Scholarships, now heads to the full Senate before possible House consideration. Proponents argue it empowers families in districts like those in Philadelphia and rural Adams County, where Sen. Doug Mastriano has championed similar measures such as the Educational Freedom for Families Act with Education Savings Accounts.[7] Pennsylvania already funds scholarships via tax credits through the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit and Education Improvement Tax Credit programs.[2] Opponents, including the Pennsylvania State Education Association, decry the plan as a direct assault on public schools, warning it could siphon millions from needy districts. PSEA President Rich Askey called a related House voucher bill HB 2169 — passed April 27 — a 'truly terrible' policy diverting $144 million for private tuition, uniforms, and tutoring.[4] The ACLU of Pennsylvania flagged constitutional issues with taxpayer-funded private school vouchers under SB 10.[5][9]