#Idaho

A town hall in Idaho has intensified debate over a new school voucher program, signaling broader concerns about public funding for private education. Held at Idaho State University and attended by about 200 residents, the event mirrors global worries about public schools’ sustainability and offers lessons for Thailand as policymakers consider similar reforms.

Organized by a local education advocacy group, the gathering discussed Idaho’s HB 93, signed into law in early 2025. The measure allocates state funds—about 50 million dollars—as a parental tax credit to help families cover private school tuition. The program provides up to 5,000 dollars per student, with enhanced support for students with disabilities. Panelists described the funds as refundable tax credits that reduce state revenue before other public services are funded.

A recent town hall in Pocatello, Idaho has brought national attention to the intensifying debate over the state’s new school voucher program, with local educators and administrators warning of “severe” economic, social, and academic repercussions if public funding is diverted to private education. The event, held at Idaho State University and attended by roughly 200 community members, highlights a growing unease about the sustainability of public schools not only in Idaho but across the United States—and raises parallel questions for Thailand as policymakers here consider similar reforms.