State Decides Future Of Voucher Program
Their Decision Will Effect Thousands Of Children
COLUMBUS, Posted 2:13 p.m. September 28, 1998 --Arguments have been heard, and now the Ohio Supreme Court must decide whether the student voucher program is unconstitutional.
According to The Associated Press, the court's chamber was packed today as supporters of the student voucher program listened carefully to arguments.
The program began in 1996 and was established in order to allow low-income families access to private education by providing them with tuition vouchers.
Opponents say the program is unconstitutional because it funnels state money to religious organizations. However, the state argues because parents choose which schools their children go to, the money is not directed specifically towards religious institutions.
This year there were 4,400 applications compared with more than 6,000 in 1996. About 4,000 children are currently receiving assistance from the program to attend private schools in Cleveland.
Members of the court did not say when a decision would be reached, but the matter could ultimately be decided by the United States Supreme Court.
Copyright 1998 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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