(Providence, R.I.) – Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) today applauded New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement that she intends to opt New York into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (FSTC) program, making it the second, and largest Democratic-led state to act to date. New York is poised to become the 30th state to opt in—a landmark moment for the program and for Democratic leadership on education. Education Reform Now projects that New York could recapture more than$1.525 billion annually in new educational support if just 30% of its taxpayers redirect $1,700 that would otherwise go to the IRS to a local education organization.
Jorge Elorza, CEO of Democrats for Education Reform, released the following statement:
“Governor Hochul’s decision is a major win for New York students and families and we applaud the governor for her leadership. This would represent one of the largest education funding infusions to New York in years—and it comes at no cost to the state budget.”
“These new resources will help kids—including low- and middle-income students in public schools—access tutoring, after-school programs, transportation, technology, summer learning, special-education services, and other supports that have historically been out of reach for far too many families. This means more resources flowing to public school students, not away from them.
“DFER has been urging Democratic governors to opt in since the program’s inception, and the momentum is now undeniable. Governor Hochul joins Governor Polis in the yes column. Meanwhile, three governors—in Hawaii, New Mexico, and Oregon—who initially said their states would not participate have publicly confirmed they are reconsidering their positions. As the largest Democratic-led state to act, New York sends an unmistakable signal to every blue-state governor still on the sidelines.”
“We urge non-profit organizations throughout New York to actively consider how they might participate in the program and utilize the funds to meet the needs of kids and families.”