AMERICA MISSION

As a mother in Idaho, the recent passage of House Bill 93 by the Idaho House of Representatives has given me a renewed sense of hope for my children’s educational future. This bill introduces a parental choice tax credit of up to $5,000 per child for educational expenses. It’s a beacon of opportunity for families like mine who are tired of the system screwing over our kids’ future and yearn for more control over our children’s learning paths. I only just recently began exploring the education system when my toddler hit preschool age last year, and public school was out of the question: the woke garbage seeping into Idaho’s classrooms was a dealbreaker. We were pleased to find a wonderful Christian private school that was worth the high price, and now this bill could help ensure we can continue making the tuition costs. 

Idaho House Bill 93, passed by the Idaho Legislature in February 2025, establishes a $50 million parental choice tax credit program. Introduced on January 30, 2025, the bill adds new provisions to Idaho’s taxation laws to create the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit and the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit Advance Payment Fund. It aims to assist parents in funding educational expenses by providing a refundable tax credit of up to $5,000 per child, with eligibility prioritized for families whose taxable income does not exceed 300% of the federal poverty level. The credit can be applied to qualified expenses such as tuition and fees at nonpublic schools, though the bill does not explicitly clarify its applicability to homeschooling.

The legislation passed the House on February 7, 2025, and the Senate on February 19, 2025, with a vote of 20-15, after significant debate. It allows nonpublic schools accepting these funds to maintain their independence from government regulation, including their admissions policies and curriculum. Supporters argue it expands educational options for low- and middle-income families, while critics, including the Idaho Education Association, contend it diverts public funds to private and religious schools without adequate accountability measures, potentially undermining public education. The bill is now awaiting Governor Brad Little’s decision to sign or veto.

This tax credit opens doors to private schools, specialized programs, or even the resources needed for effective homeschooling. For families like mine, where the budget is tight, this financial assistance means we can consider educational paths previously out of reach, ensuring our children receive an education tailored to their individual needs. At its core, House Bill 93 is about empowering parents. Every child is unique, with different learning styles, interests, and needs. My child is a livewire and does not fit neatly into one educational box. It is also important to me that he learns the foundation of The Gospel and Christ’s love for us. This bill acknowledges this diversity by providing financial support to explore these options without the burden of additional costs. In other words, with HB 93, I’ve got a real shot at keeping my kid enrolled without bleeding my bank account dry. 

Naysayers might argue that such a bill diverts funds from public schools, but that’s not true. HB 93 isn’t about taking anything away; it’s about adding choice and thereby fostering a more equitable education system. Not to mention, the government’s been torching our tax dollars for years. By supporting this bill, we’re advocating for a system where every student, regardless of their background or learning style, has access to quality education and we get to choose where our tax dollars are spent. In other words, HB 93 flips the script: it’s our money, our kids, our call. 

Call to Action

As a mother, I urge my fellow Idahoans to view House Bill 93 not as a divisive measure but as a unifying one – one that recognizes the diversity of our children’s needs and our collective desire for their success. I support this bill because it aligns with my vision of an education system where every child can find their path to success, where learning is not just a right but a tailored journey. Let’s embrace this opportunity to enhance our educational landscape, ensuring that all our children, including mine, have the chance to grow into their fullest potential. House Bill 93 is not just a policy; it’s a promise to our children for a brighter, more inclusive educational future in Idaho.