ATLANTA - Special-needs children in Georgia may soon be able to forgo the required year of enrollment in a public school before they can receive a voucher that uses taxpayer dollars to pay for a private school.
State lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow children with severe disabilities to begin receiving a voucher without ever attending a public school. The bill is part of a push by GOP leaders to expand the state's voucher program, which is only for special-needs children.
GOP leaders said the bill is aimed at cutting red tape for children who aren't able to attend public school and need the help of private programs.
But opponents say the bill only opens the door to the state handing out vouchers to any child who wants one, siphoning money from cash-strapped districts.