AFC Celebrates Wyoming’s Passage of School Choice Bill, Urges Governor Mark Gordon to Sign
Dallas, Texas – The American Federation for Children applauds Wyoming’s legislature for passing a bill creating the Steamboat Legacy Scholarship Program, an education savings account available to all families in the state. The state Senate and House swiftly passed the measure, and a Joint Conference Committee successfully negotiated several policy differences between the two chambers Thursday. The Act now moves to Governor Mark Gordon’s desk for his signature.
President Donald Trump called Senate sponsor Bo Biteman a patriot in a social media post last week, adding that school choice puts “power where it belongs – PARENTS.” President Trump noted that passing the bill “would be an incredible Victory for Wyoming students and families.”
AFC urges Governor Gordon to sign the bill and advance school choice for every family.
Statement from Ryan Cantrell, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Federation for Children
“Voters across the country are demanding school choice, and Wyoming is just the latest example of legislators responding to the voices of their constituents. Today, we celebrate with the Wyoming families, students, educators, and advocates who stood up to demand their right to education freedom.
“AFC thanks Representative Ocean Andrew for his steadfast leadership in bringing education freedom to Wyoming families. AFC also appreciates Senate President Bo Biteman, House Speaker Chip Neiman, Senator Evie Brennan, Representative Lawley, and all members who stood up to deliver school choice for their constituents.
“Now is the time for Governor Gordon to stand with families and sign this bill into law so that all Wyoming students have a chance to learn in an environment that best meets their needs.”
Details:
- Who would be eligible? All Wyoming K-12 students would be eligible for up to $7,000 per child; pre-K students at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level would also be eligible
- How do education savings accounts work? HB 199 allocates $30 million for education savings accounts to reimburse families for education-related expenses; the program will initially serve up to about 4,000 students
- What would the scholarships cover? The scholarships would cover education-related expenses including tuition and fees, tutoring, transportation, and more
- When would the program start? The Steamboat Legacy Scholarship Program would become effective for the 2025-2026 school year
- How will accountability be ensured? The Wyoming State Superintendent will administer the program and investigate reported misuse
About AFC:
The American Federation for Children is the nation’s largest school choice advocacy organization and the most successful force for education freedom in America, passing over 200 laws across 31 states throughout our history. Our affiliated Super PAC, AFC Victory Fund, is the only nationwide Super PAC focused on advancing school choice.
