Sen. Johnson Introduces Bill to Permanently Authorize School Choice in D.C.

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) reintroduced legislation to permanently authorize the funding for the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program (DC OSP), D.C. Public Charter Schools, and D.C. Public Schools. Senator Johnson has long championed school choice in Milwaukee and Wisconsin. Since the beginning of his chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the committee of jurisdiction for the District of Columbia, Senator Johnson led reauthorizations of this vital program for disadvantaged D.C. students.

DC OSP provides scholarships for low-income families in the District for their children to attend a private school in the District. DC OSP is a monumental success, demonstrated by students' graduation rates, post-secondary success, parental satisfaction, and the annual demand from District parents.

"The D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program has helped thousands of students from low-income households attain a graduation rate significantly higher than comparable students. The fact that twice as many children apply for the program than can be accommodated shows how important choice in education is for families. Permanently authorizing the program would continue to allow families access to a better future and the ability to choose the best type of education for their children," Sen. Johnson said.

"The D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program has a track record of delivering real results for students, especially those from low-income households," said Sen. Tim Scott. "Permanently authorizing the SOAR Act ensures scholarships through this proven program remain available, protects families' freedom to choose, and keeps opportunity within reach for the students who need it most."

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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