Bill Summary:

For income tax years commencing on or after January 1, 2021, the bill allows an individual or corporate taxpayer to subtract from the taxpayer's federal taxable income any amount contributed to an eligible scholarship granting organization, to the extent such amount is not claimed as a deduction on the taxpayer's federal tax return. An eligible scholarship granting organization is defined as a charitable nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to dependent children for tuition expenses for the child's enrollment in a private school so long as the child qualifies for free or reduced-cost lunch. An eligible scholarship organization is required to undergo an annual financial and compliance audit of its accounts and records conducted by an independent certified public accountant and is required to submit the audit to the department of education. The department of education is required to review each audit it receives and submit an annual list to the department of revenue of eligible nonprofit scholarship granting organizations that are in compliance with the requirements specified for the deduction. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)

CEA Position Rationale: This is ultimately still a voucher program. Reducing the amount of taxable income in order to send money to a private school is a reduction in funds available to fund public schools.

Legislative Priorities: Dismantle Inequitable and Racist Structures, Increase Funding and Resources to Public Education and Educators 

Tier: 3