Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the broad support for a universal school choice bill during Parent Empowerment Day at the Texas Public Policy Foundation in Austin. As public testimony on House Bill 3 began in the Texas House Public Education Committee, Abbott called on Texans to voice their support for school choice.

“If you look at opponents of school choice, they have a single goal: they want more money,” said Governor Abbott. “More money is not a goal. It’s a means to an end. Our goal is bigger, bolder, and better. Our goal is to put Texas on a pathway to ranking No. 1 in educating our kids. What matters more than a high-paid lobbyist are parents and children who want the best for their future. It’s essential that you show up to the committee hearing and register your support in favor of school choice. When you do that today, I can assure you that you have done your part, and we will succeed in delivering school choice for every parent and every child.”

Addressing over 300 parents and students, Abbott praised Speaker Dustin Burrows for his historic support of school choice in Texas. He also countered claims about the negative impact of school choice by stating that most Texans across demographics support it, public education funding will remain intact, and homeschooling parents will retain curriculum control.

Abbott was joined by Speaker Burrows; Representatives Daniel Alders, Paul Dyson, Caroline Harris Davila, Cole Hefner, Hillary Hickland, Carrie Isaac, Mike Olcott, Nate Schatzline, Shelby Slawson, Valoree Swanson, and Steve Toth; along with students and parents from around Texas who back school choice.

In his recent State of the State Address for 2025, Governor Abbott identified school choice as an emergency item for this legislative session.