Tennessee Leaders Approve Governor's School Voucher Program

The Tennessee Senate and House of Representatives have successfully passed Governor Bill Lee’s statewide expansion of school vouchers, known as the Tennessee Education Freedom Act of 2025. The legislation emerged after extensive debate during a swift four-day special session focused on vouchers, disaster relief, and immigration enforcement.

The newly approved bill allocates approximately $7,000 in taxpayer-funded “scholarships” for Tennessee parents, allowing them to enroll their children in private schools of their choice. Despite facing opposition, both chambers ultimately secured the necessary constitutional majority to pass the legislation. The House voted in favor with a tally of 54-45, while the Senate followed suit with a 20-13 vote.

Notably, the bill also includes a one-time $2,000 bonus for all K-12 teachers in Tennessee. However, critics have raised concerns, noting that the bonus will only be available to teachers if their local school district adopts a resolution to participate by June 1; otherwise, they will not receive the incentive.

The passage of this bill marks a significant shift in Tennessee's education policy, reflecting ongoing debates over school choice and funding in the state.