BOISE, Idaho — In a press release on February 27, Governor Brad Little announced he had signed the Parental Choice Tax Credit bill that passed the Senate 20-15 and the House 42-28.
The bill creates a $50 million program in refundable tax credits for parents with school-aged children who are not enrolled in public institutions. The voluntary program will be administered by the Idaho Tax Commission and requires an application prior to claiming the tax credit. Parents will be able to claim up to $5,000 per child, and up to $7,500 per child with special needs. Priority will be given to families with income below the 300% Federal Poverty Level.
“With the passage of the $50 million Parental Choice Tax Credit program, Idaho boasts even more abundant schooling options for Idaho students and families,” Little stated. “Combined with the continuation of Idaho’s astoundingly successful LAUNCH program, Idaho has become the first state to offer education freedom from kindergarten through career.”
“Idaho can have it all—strong public schools AND education freedom. Providing high-quality education for Idaho students will always be our top priority,” said Little.
During a town hall on February 22, Senator Ben Toews (R–Coeur d’Alene) called it “a fantastic piece of legislation” and told constituents that the Parental Choice Tax Credit bill would give parents an option “to give their children the very best education that they need for their unique and individual needs.” Additionally, he stated that Idaho taxpayers are expected to save up to $8,000 per child whose parents opt into the program. Although a handful of anti-school choice protestors shouted at Toews while he was speaking, the crowd of roughly 400 cheered when they heard taxpayers would be saving money.
The LAUNCH grant program mentioned in Governor Little’s press release provides high school graduates money for post-secondary education if they pursue eligible fields of study. It is administered by the Idaho State Board of Education and funded by the In-Demand Career Fund, which was established in 2023 with a sunset date in 2029. Assistant Majority Leader Rep. Josh Tanner (R–Eagle) has proposed a bill to amend the sunset date to 2026. Under the Statement of Purpose attached to the proposed legislation, Tanner indicates up to $80 million will be reduced in the 2027 budget should it be approved.
