(The Lion) — Republican Gov. Bill Lee and a coalition of leaders in the Tennessee Legislature are calling for a special session to pass universal school choice and other pressing measures.
“We believe the state has a responsibility to act quickly on issues that matter most to Tennesseans, and there is widespread support in the General Assembly and across Tennessee for a special session on the most pressing legislative priorities,” read a joint statement released Wednesday by Lee, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, House Speaker Cameron Sexton, Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson and House Majority Leader William Lamberth, who are all Republicans.
“The majority of Tennesseans, regardless of political affiliation, have made it clear that they support empowering parents with school choice, and the best thing we can do for Tennessee students is deliver choices and public school resources without delay.”
The Education Freedom Act proposes a scholarship program to begin in the fall. It would offer the equivalent of the state’s base funding amount – which is currently $7,075 per student – to up to 20,000 students.
Half of the scholarships would be reserved for middle- and lower-income families, or those earning less than $173,000 for a family of four, Chalkbeat reported. The restriction would lift the second year, although lower-income families, those with children entering preschool and recipients from the first year would get priority. The number of available slots would increase by 5,000 annually.
The program is projected to cost about $142 million the first year, compared to the $7 billion the state currently spends on K-12 education.
Currently, Tennessee has only two small school choice programs. One is exclusively for special needs students and the other is a pilot program available in just three cities.
According to Lee’s press release, the Education Freedom Act also includes public school reforms such as a one-time $2,000 bonus for all teachers, increased facility funding and raising teachers’ starting salary.
Other topics to be addressed included Hurricane Helene recovery, preparation for future natural disasters and public safety measures regarding illegal immigration in anticipation of new federal policies from President-elect Donald Trump.
The special session will begin Jan. 27. The state General Assembly already started its annual session on Jan. 14.
Republicans hold supermajorities in both houses of the Legislature, increasing the chances the school choice bill will pass. Division among Republicans doomed a school choice proposal from Lee last year, but the call for a special session indicates lawmakers believe they have the support necessary to pass it this time.
There is also urgency, as the term-limited governor wants school choice approved early in the legislative session so that the program is ready in time for school this fall.
