Buckeye Reporter

The Ohio House Republican Caucus has announced that its budget plan includes targeted improvements aimed at expanding school choice across the state.

Ohio has significantly expanded its school choice initiatives in recent years, reflecting a broader national trend among Republican-led states. According to the Associated Press, Ohio's voucher programs now account for over 3% of the state's general spending, highlighting the growing financial commitment to these programs. This expansion includes broader eligibility criteria and increased funding, positioning Ohio as a leading example in the school choice movement.

According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the Ohio House's budget plan includes substantial enhancements to state-funded scholarship programs, notably the EdChoice Expansion Program. The program provides scholarships to students in grades K–12 based on household income level, with amounts of $6,166 for grades K–8 and $8,408 for grades 9–12. These targeted improvements aim to increase accessibility and support for families seeking alternative educational options.

A recent study by the Urban Institute has highlighted positive long-term outcomes associated with Ohio's EdChoice voucher program. The study found that students participating in the program were significantly more likely to enroll in and graduate from college compared to their peers in public schools. These findings suggest that the EdChoice program may contribute to improved educational attainment among low-income students.

The Ohio House GOP is described as the Republican majority caucus in the Ohio House of Representatives, which is the lower chamber of the Ohio General Assembly. Comprising 99 members, the House is currently under Republican control, with a significant majority held by the GOP. The caucus plays a central role in shaping state policy and legislative priorities, including education reform and budgetary decisions.