Texas Comptroller Demands Clarification on School Voucher Exclusions
Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock is seeking legal clarification from the Attorney General regarding potential exclusions in the state’s new school voucher program. This inquiry specifically addresses whether schools affiliated with certain groups could be disqualified from participation based on alleged foreign ties.
Concerns About School Affiliations
On December 12, Hancock submitted a request to Attorney General Ken Paxton. The request raises questions about excluding schools linked to the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a group recently labeled as a terrorist organization by Governor Greg Abbott. CAIR has launched a lawsuit against Abbott, arguing that the designation is defamatory and lacks legal basis.
In his request, Hancock mentioned reports that one school may be controlled by an advisor to the Chinese government. This connection raises alarms under Texas laws regulating property ownership by foreign adversaries. Texas Senate Bill 17, which took effect on September 1, prohibits entities from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from owning land in the state.
Request for Legal Guidance
Hancock articulated that this request stems from “credible concerns” regarding the affiliations of some providers approved for the voucher program. Hancock emphasized the need for legal insight to ensure the safety of personal data from foreign threats and to prevent misuse of public funds.
The Comptroller’s statement highlighted that their inquiry does not imply any predetermined outcomes or judgments on specific institutions. “This is about protecting Texas residents and upholding our legal standards,” he stated.
Responses and Implications
CAIR Texas responded, asserting that the events organized at affiliated schools focus on civil rights education. They contend that teaching students about their rights is lawful. A representative claimed that penalizing schools for engaging with CAIR could infringe upon First Amendment rights.
Since applications opened for the new voucher program, the Comptroller’s office reported that around 600 private schools and 200 vendors have applied. The application process is ongoing, with Texas families eligible to apply starting February 4. Governor Abbott’s push for the voucher program indicates a significant policy shift in Texas education.
Context of the Action
This inquiry by the Texas Comptroller is set against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of Muslim organizations in the state, particularly following investigations into the East Plano Islamic Center’s development initiatives. The political climate in Texas has seen notable criticism towards Islam, which may influence future legal interpretations regarding school vouchers and educational partnerships.
