Governor Abbott declares Texas is ready to pass universal school choice, citing parental empowerment and competitiveness in key industries as top priorities

Austin, Texas – In a recent gathering at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Governor Greg Abbott reinforced his commitment to advancing school choice in the state, signaling a major legislative push in collaboration with key political figures, including former Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. This meeting, which also included Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and Speaker Dustin Burrows, underscored a unified effort to bring transformative educational choices to Texas families.

“School choice is important for parents and essential for students,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas is on the cusp of game-changing legislation. No one knows better than a parent about the power and importance of school choice for children. We must prioritize our students. As Governor, we will ensure Texas ranks No. 1 for educating our students. That starts by passing school choice this session.”

“This is a not a partisan issue, this is an American issue,” said Governor Ducey. “No state as big, impactful, and consequential as Texas has passed school choice yet. I am fully supportive of what you and your chambers are trying to do here with universal school choice. When Texas passes this, it will change everything for every child in this state and across the nation.”

“Texas is funding education at one the highest levels ever,” said Lieutenant Governor Patrick. “But every parent deserves a choice. Anyone who says that school choice is undermining education, that is simply a total lie. School choice is only going to make our schools more competitive and better for every child in Texas.”

“We can fully fund public education and do school choice at the same time,” said Speaker Burrows. “This is why the Texas House has been committed to passing House Bill 2 and House Bill 3 in tandem. We are excited to get the opportunity to get the legislation on the Governor’s desk to become law.”

The concerted efforts of these leaders aim to equip parents with the freedom to choose the best educational paths for their children, thereby enhancing the state’s competitive edge in key industries such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and aerospace. Governor Abbott concluded the session by thanking his colleagues for their dedication to empowering parents with more educational options, which he believes will help secure Texas’ position as a top state for education in the future.

Watch the Governor’s full media availability here.