LaRock Files Parental Choice Education Savings Account Legislation

Delegate Dave LaRock today filed HB 1605, a bill to provide Parental Choice Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) to students in Virginia.

Delegate LaRock says, “Education Savings Accounts are a proven example of problem solving through smart innovation, not endless appropriations. Nearly 1 million children in Arizona, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Nevada are eligible for Education Savings Accounts. Last school year, 6,000 students used these accounts. American voters overwhelmingly support school choice programs for good reason. It’s time to give the people of Virginia what they are asking for; more education freedom through Education Savings Accounts. ESAs are a common-sense solution that helps people in need, saves taxpayer money, and improves educational outcomes.”

ESAs allow students whose education needs are not being met in the public school setting to gain access to the resources they need. Education is their gateway to opportunity, but for some the gateway is blocked. While most public schools do their best, others simply will not or cannot meet all the educational needs of all students.

This is the third year that LaRock has introduced ESA legislation; previous efforts were defeated by Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam in 2015, and by Gov. Terry McAuliffe in 2016.

As to the likelihood of success, LaRock stated, “I have no doubt that the education establishment will continue to throw roadblocks in front of any effort to provide better education options for Virginia’s students and parents that is not channeled through the public school system, but I refuse to quit. I’m confident this program will become law eventually, so I will continue to bring this legislation until the Governor changes his mind, or the voters of the Commonwealth elect a Governor with compassion who understands the need to provide relief for these kids, schools and taxpayers. I call on the Governor to put the needs of Virginia’s children ahead of the desires of special interest lobbyists by signing my ESA legislation this year.”

More information on the ESA legislation is available here: http://votelarock.us/esa