Senate Republicans have renewed efforts to establish a $125 million private school voucher program, a move critics say primarily benefits families already enrolled in private education.

Hundreds of private school students gathered at the Statehouse on Tuesday to support Senate Bill 75, which mirrors past proposals. With strengthened supermajorities, GOP leaders have vowed to pass the measure this year.

Supporters tout the bill as a “school choice” initiative, though funds would largely go to families with children already in private schools. Critics note that many rural areas lack private school options, and tuition often exceeds $20,000 annually—far beyond the bill’s proposed assistance.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Renee Erickson, offers parents an $8,000 tax credit per private school student and $4,000 per homeschooled child. Public school students would be ineligible. The program’s cost could surpass $200 million by year four, as tax credits rise by 25% annually if 90% of funds are claimed.