AUSTIN (Nexstar) — Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) are a step closer to becoming reality in Texas after the House approved Senate Bill 2 (SB 2) on Thursday in an 86–68 vote.
While Governor Greg Abbott is expected to sign the bill, lawmakers must first reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions.
Key Differences: Eligibility & Funding
The Senate version of SB 2 aims for broader access, allowing families earning up to 500% of the Federal Poverty Line (roughly $160,750 for a family of four) and students with disabilities to enter a lottery for 80% of available funds. The remaining 20% would be open to all students.
The House version uses a four-tier system prioritizing low-income families and disabled students. Funds are distributed in order: first to disabled students under the 500% FPL cap, then families under 200% FPL, followed by those between 200–500%, and finally all others.
Funding Amounts
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Senate: $10,000 per student at a private school, $11,500 for disabled students, $2,000 for homeschoolers.
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House: 85% of per-pupil public school funding (estimated at $10,330 in 2027), adjusted for disability status; $2,000 max for homeschoolers.
Next Steps: Conference Committee or Fast-Track?
A conference committee, with five members from each chamber, is expected to work out the differences. They must choose between existing language from either chamber — no new provisions can be added.
However, if the Senate agrees to the House version as is, the bill could skip the committee and head straight to the governor, speeding up the process.
Some insiders say early coordination between House and Senate leaders may prevent lengthy negotiations and ensure the bill’s quick passage.
