The Texas Senate has passed the controversial school choice bill with a vote of 19-12.
Texas lawmakers convened Thursday to vote on the bill again.
It was approved roughly a week ago by the House in a historic vote. It was the first time the House gave the green light to a bill that will give taxpayer money to students to attend private school. The Senate approved similar legislation multiple times, including earlier this year by a margin of 19-12.
As part of the $1 billion bill, most students who attend an accredited private school will receive $10,000 per year. Students with disabilities will receive up to $30,000 per year, and home-schooled students will get $2,000 a year.
Republicans said the bill prioritizes low-income students and those with disabilities. Democrats said they believe at the end of the day, most of the students who take part in the program will be wealthier students who attend private school now.
