Senator César J. Blanco Stands Up for Public Schools, Votes Against SB2, Vouchers

Press Release Contact: Taylor Sanchez
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Taylor.sanchez@senate.texas.gov
February 5, 2025
Senator César J. Blanco Stands Up for Public Schools, Votes
Against SB2, Vouchers
Austin, Texas – Today, Senator César J. Blanco voted against Senate Bill 2, which creates
education savings accounts, also known as “school vouchers”. Despite opposition, the bill passed
the Texas Senate by a 20-11 vote.
“I am disappointed to see the Texas Senate approve school vouchers and divert scarce public
school dollars to private schools,” said Senator Blanco. “Giving private schools a hand-out at the
expense of public schools, leaves rural communities, English learners, and working families in
my district with fewer choices, not more.”
SB 2 currently requires that parents be notified that private schools are not obligated to follow
the same federal and state regulations for Special Education students as public schools. Senator
Blanco introduced an amendment to expand this notice requirement to include English Language
Learners (ELLs). The amendment would have ensured that parents of ELL children, just like
parents of Special Education students, could make an informed decision about the best
educational setting for their child. Ultimately, the amendment was rejected by the author of the
bill.
Senator Blanco delivered a speech opposing the bill before its passage. “This bill isn’t about
school choice. It’s about the private school’s choice. Instead of picking winners and losers, we
should invest in all our students, fund our public schools, pay teachers what they deserve, and
ensure that every child has a real opportunity to succeed. That is the promise of public
education.”