Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz from Texas and Representative Kevin Hern of Oklahoma have introduced the Student Empowerment Act, a legislative proposal aimed at expanding the 529 College Savings Plans to support various educational settings including public, private, religious, and homeschool students.

Senator Cruz emphasized the importance of school choice, describing it as "the civil rights issue of the 21st century." He expressed his commitment to advocating for educational freedom and urged his colleagues in Congress to pass this legislation swiftly. Representative Hern highlighted how previous tax cuts under President Trump enhanced 529 accounts, enabling many Americans to invest in their children's education. He described the expansion of these accounts as transformative for education.

Michele Exner from Parents Defending Education Action supported the initiative by stating that families should have more options in choosing schools that best fit their children's academic needs. Tommy Schultz from the American Federation for Children also expressed support for Senator Cruz's efforts to expand 529 usage.

James R. Mason from Home School Legal Defense Association noted that this bill would treat homeschool families fairly by allowing them to save money in tax-advantaged accounts for educational expenses. Don Soifer from National Microschooling Center praised the act for providing more opportunities for families involved in microschooling.

Rabbi A.D. Motzen from Agudath Israel of America applauded Senator Cruz's work on expanding 529 plans since they allow parents to save for K-12 education expenses. Ryan Walker from Heritage Action stated that this legislation could lead towards universal school choice by offering resources and flexibility needed by families.

Carrie Lukas from Independent Women's Voice pointed out that many parents struggle with additional investments in their children’s education despite saving money through 529 accounts. She views Senator Cruz’s proposal as a potential solution for such families.

The legislation is co-sponsored by several senators including Ron Johnson, John Curtis, James Lankford, Tim Sheehy, Eric Schmitt, Tim Scott, Rick Scott, and Mike Rounds. The companion bill was introduced in the House by Representative Hern.

According to background information provided with the announcement:

- The act aims to expand school choice by increasing access to 529 Education Savings Plans.

- It seeks to include K-12 tuition and other eligible educational expenses across different schooling options.

- The act intends to restore benefits originally intended under a previous amendment which included homeschool families.

- It proposes further expansion of what costs can be covered using these savings accounts such as curriculum materials and testing fees.

The Student Empowerment Act has received endorsements from various organizations including Parents Defending Education Action and American Federation for Children among others.