Texas Legislation Update: Heated Debate Over School Vouchers for Kids With Disabilities

Today the Texas legislature debated two bills that would allow Texas children with disabilities to attend private schools.

Senate Bill 1301 by Sen. Florence Shapiro, R-Plano, would provide vouchers for students with autism and autism spectrum disorder.

SB 183 by Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands, would create a broader voucher program for students with disabilities.

The Associated Press reports:

At a hearing on the bills in the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday, Sen. Dan Patrick, R-Houston, pounded on his desk as he berated opponents and urged them to "pray about" the families who aren't receiving proper instruction from public schools.

Proponents of the programs say private schools would provide better options for children with disabilities, such as autism. Opponents call the plan an unwise diversion of public resources and say it would strip schools of the ability to educate special needs children who don't qualify for a voucher.

What do you think?