AUSTIN - The Texas House of Representatives engaged in a heated debate on Friday morning over a comprehensive school finance plan, as rural House Republicans filed an amendment aimed at eliminating a controversial provision that would establish education savings accounts (ESAs).

State Rep. John Raney, a long-time opponent of school voucher plans and a College Station Republican, proposed the amendment to completely remove the section of the bill that would establish ESAs. Around 15 other Republicans joined Raney in sponsoring the amendment, potentially setting it up for success if all Democrats vote in favor.

If the amendment is passed, lawmakers anticipate a relatively short day. However, a bill passed by the House without the inclusion of education savings accounts would likely face significant challenges upon reaching the Senate. Furthermore, Governor Greg Abbott has already indicated his intention to veto any legislation that does not include ESAs.

According to the Legislative Budget Board's fiscal analysis, House Bill 1, which is at the center of the debate, would result in a cost of more than $36 billion for the state by 2028. This includes a staggering $7.6 billion within the next two years alone.

Even before the debate began, House Bill 1 faced criticism from both liberal and conservative lawmakers. Many conservatives, including State Rep. Matt Schaefer of Tyler, expressed concerns about the high cost of the bill compared to the limited reach of education savings accounts. Schaefer argued that the current spending is an attempt to garner support for school choice.

On the other hand, Democrats stand united against any inclusion of ESAs in the bill. State Rep. Carl Sherman of Desoto highlighted the need to prioritize teachers and adequately support the public school system, rather than pursuing vouchers.

In an internal communication obtained by Nexstar, House Democratic leaders instructed their caucus to allow Republicans to lead the way on the anti-ESA amendment. The leaders expressed confidence in a bipartisan majority supporting the amendment, emphasizing their commitment to defeating what they referred to as "school voucher scams."

During the debate, Public Education Chair Brad Buckley passionately advocated for 'school choice,' sharing personal stories to underline the importance of these state subsidies in helping families access the best educational options for their children. Buckley posed the question to members whether they would deny an education to a struggling second-grader or to parents with two autistic children.

As the discussion ensues, the outcome of the amendment remains uncertain. The decision holds significant implications for the future of education in Texas and the ongoing debates surrounding school finance.