Idaho: Gov. Little expands education freedom, issues executive order opting into federal scholarship tax credit program
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Boise, Idaho ~ Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little has taken a significant step towards expanding school choice in Idaho with the issuance of a new executive order. The order, issued on Monday, Feb. 16, opts the state into the federal scholarship tax credit program created through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

In a statement, Governor Little expressed his pride in Idaho being the only state to offer education freedom from kindergarten through career. He emphasized that this executive order strengthens their commitment to ensuring every parent has the opportunity to choose the best education environment for their child.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as House Resolution 1, created a federal tax credit for individuals who wish to support students by donating up to $1,700 to a qualified scholarship granting organization. This new program expands educational opportunities for all students without placing any additional burden on taxpayers. States must opt into the program and on January 20, 2026, Idaho officially submitted documentation declaring their intention to participate.

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Senator Lori Den Hartog also expressed her support for this move by Governor Little, stating that every student learns differently and deserves an education that reflects their individual strengths and needs. She believes that Idaho's commitment to education freedom will provide families with meaningful options to find the best path for their child.

Representative Jason Monks echoed this sentiment and added that expanding education freedom is a response to what Idahoans have consistently called for - more choices in their children's education. He believes that this will give parents greater access to options that meet their child's individual needs.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield also praised Governor Little's executive order, stating that it will benefit every student and family in Idaho regardless of their educational choices. She sees this as an opportunity to give Idahoans more support, resources, and options without taking away from what they already have.

Governor Little's executive order directs the Idaho State Department of Education to implement the new education tax credit. The full text of Executive Order 2026-03 can be found at this link: https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/0.... With this move, Idaho is taking a significant step towards providing families with more choices and opportunities in their children's education.

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