1. United States
2. S.C.
3. Letter

South Carolina lawmakers are attempting to circumvent the state Supreme Court's ruling prohibiting public funds from directly benefiting private schools. The proposed bill would use lottery proceeds, which are considered public funds, to fund private school vouchers or scholarships. This effort undermines the separation of church and state and funnels resources away from public education. Voucher programs drain funding from public schools that serve all students. Furthermore, private schools can reject students for any reason, including disability status or religious beliefs. Public schools must accept all students regardless of background. Enabling vouchers prioritizes private interests over ensuring all children receive a quality education. I urge you to reject this latest voucher bill and any efforts to amend the state constitution to allow public funding of private education. Our public schools need more investment and support, not policies that defund them in favor of unaccountable private institutions. Uphold the court's ruling and protect South Carolina's students by voting against school vouchers.