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Richard Piatt Reporting Tax credits for private school students still has to pass muster with the Senate and the Governor. But vouchers survived the biggest challenge by just one vote, today in the House of Representatives.
It was a razor thin vote on an issue packed with emotion. Some call it a victory for parental choice. Others call it the beginning of the end for public education as we know it.
Anticipation was thick before the voucher vote: Some were calling this 'V' day. With the galleries packed and emotions high, debate started over tax credits for private school tuition.
Rep. Aaron Tilton (R) Springville, Supports the Bill: "For me it's the ability of a parent to choose for their child, what works best."
Rep. Ronda Rudd Menlove (R) Garland: "I will be opposing this bill because I don't think we can support another education program."
The voucher bill would grant an income-based tax credit for private school tuition; between 500 and 3,000 dollars a year. Public schools would be held harmless for five years to lessen the financial impact. It would cost the state 9.2 million dollars in the first year.
House Speaker Greg Curtis was actively supporting the bill. But Representative Brad Last--regarded as the deciding vote--says he had made up his own mind.
Rep. Brad Last (R) Saint George: "To every single one of you who wants to lynch me right now, I say don't talk to me until you read this bill. And don't talk to me until you do."
After the vote, the bill passed by just one, 38-37. In the hall, there was extreme emotion on both sides.
Celeste Tolman, Teacher: "The main thing we need to consider is the impact on student learning."
Carmen Snow, Parent Teachers Association: "It was like political terrorism out there. And it was very mean. And it wasn't a good fight. It was very mean."
Elisa Peterson, Parents for Choice in Education: "We're absolutely thrilled. This is a huge victory for kids and parents looking for more options."
After the vote, Bill Sponsor Steve Urquhart and House Speaker Greg Curtis repeated reassurance that the current system will not be hurt.
Rep. Greg Curtis, House Speaker: "This bill will provide an opportunity to parents. It will not be the death knell to public education."
Even though the Senate and the Governor still have to consider the bill, the House was seen as the real challenge to getting it passed. That happened, but just barely.
