Tax Credits For Schooling May Get Study

Idaho residents might get a lot more information later this year about the concept of granting state tax credits for families that do not use the public schools.

The House Revenue and Taxation Committee on Friday approved legislation from chairman Donna Jones to seek authorization for an interim study committee.

Earlier in the session, the tax panel killed legislation that would have given families a tax credit of up to $1,500 for each child that didn’t use public schools, but instead is home-schooled or attends parochial or private schools. Sponsors argued that money going for the tax break would be offset by the fact that fewer children would be in public schools.

Opponents contended there would be little savings from losing a student here and there, and argued it would be a huge drain in funding for public schools.

“The fiscal note probably was the biggest factor in the defeat of the bill,” Jones, R-Payette, said. “The plan is to hold hearings around the state so more people can learn about the concept and obtain better information whether it will provide more or less money for public schools.”