Who should decide how public education dollars are spent—the government or parents? That question took center stage in Bismarck as lawmakers debated a bill that would direct $40 million in state funds toward private school tuition. Supporters call it a victory for school choice, giving families more options. Critics argue it violates the state constitution and diverts money from public schools. After hours of testimony, the Senate Education Committee made no decision, leaving the future of the bill—and the broader debate—uncertain.
Kjersti Maday with Inforum has the latest news on HB1540; SB 2400 touches the same topic and has a hearing today.
HB 1540
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new chapter to title 15.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to an education savings account program.
House Sponsors: Koppelman (R, District 16), Hauck (R, District 36), J. Johnson (R, District 41), Marschall (R, District 16), Morton (R, District 46), Rohr (R, District 31), Steiner (R, District 37),
Senate Sponsors: Boehm (R, District 33), Clemens (R, District 16), Cory (R, District 42), Gerhardt (R, District 34), Wobbema (R, District 24),
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SB 2400
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new chapter to title 15.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the establishment of the education savings account program; to provide a continuing appropriation; and to provide an appropriation.
House Sponsors: Bosch (R, District 30), M. Ruby (R, District 40),
Senate Sponsors: Hogue (R, District 38), Myrdal (R, District 19), Sickler (R, District 17),
