Georgia Lawmakers Celebrate Passage of ‘Georgia Promise Scholarship Act’
Senator Greg Dolezal (R-Cumming) and State Representative Todd Jones (R-South Forsyth) are celebrating the final passage of Senate Bill 233, also known as the “Georgia Promise Scholarship Act.” Sponsored by Senator Dolezal, this bill awaits signature by Governor Brian P. Kemp.
The “Georgia Promise Scholarship Act” will provide participating students with $6,500.00 in scholarship funds each school year. Additionally, the bill creates the Georgia Education Savings Authority to administer the Promise Scholarship Program. Amendments made during consideration by the Georgia House of Representatives include revisions to the definition of ‘qualified education expense’ and the addition of eligibility requirements for participation in the program, along with clarifications regarding Georgia residency.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones applauded the passage of the measure, stating, “On Wednesday, the Senate voted to give parents greater control over their children’s educational needs. I made passing school choice a priority and am proud of the Senate for leading the way in the most substantive initiative to pass the Georgia General Assembly in decades. This is a crucial first step, but the fight does not stop to give parents a choice and resources for their child’s diverse and unique educational needs.”
“It is deeply meaningful to me that, five years after presenting this measure to the Senate, we have come together to support this tailored bill. SB 233 is designed to prioritize families in the decision-making process for their children’s education, offering choice and alternatives for those enrolled in schools that may not adequately serve their needs,” stated Sen. Dolezal.
He further expressed gratitude, stating, “I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to Lt. Governor Burt Jones, Rep. Todd Jones (R–South Forsyth) and Speaker John Burns (R–Newington), whose support was indispensable in the passage of this measure. I am also grateful to my colleagues in the Senate Majority, whose contributions were instrumental in bringing this measure to fruition. Moreover, I am indebted to Gov. Kemp for prioritizing this bill, as well as to the numerous professional and parental advocates whose dedication ensured the prioritization and passage of this critical issue. This marks a historic day for educative progress in the state of Georgia.”
With the passage of the “Georgia Promise Scholarship Act,” Georgia lawmakers aim to usher in a new era of educational opportunity and choice for students and families across the state.
Read the full text of SB 233 here.