Hochul Says New York Will Join Federal Scholarship Program

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Friday, October 9, that the state will join a federal scholarship tax-credit program, rejecting calls from teachers unions and state legislative leaders to opt out. The decision allows eligible New York students and families to access scholarships funded through donations to approved organizations, though the program’s effect on public schools remains disputed. The federal program offers taxpayers a credit of up to $1,700 for donations to scholarship-granting organizations. Families may use scholarships for private or religious school tuition. Students in public schools may also be eligible for support such as tutoring, after-school programs, transportation and other educational services. A governor must opt a state in for its students to qualify. Hochul said she reviewed federal regulations published the previous week before deciding. She has argued that participation could bring additional resources to students without reducing funding for public schools or state and local budgets. She also said business leaders had committed to use the program to support public-school students and their academic needs.