Senator Bolick Leads United Push to Open New Scholarship Opportunities for Arizona Students
ARIZONA, October 2 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 2, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senator Shawnna Bolick is leading a united push by 35 Republican lawmakers urging Governor Katie Hobbs to open new education scholarship opportunities for Arizona families now that long-awaited federal guidance has arrived.
Senator Bolick spearheaded the October 1 letter, bringing together Senate and House colleagues to request Arizona’s participation in the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program. The effort renews the call behind her SB 1142, which Hobbs vetoed in April while citing the need for federal regulatory guidance. Treasury and the IRS issued proposed regulations and companion temporary regulations October 1, providing states with procedures to prepare for the program’s January 1, 2027 launch.
For a child struggling with reading, a scholarship could help cover tutoring. For a student with a disability, it could help pay for specialized services. Eligible students in both public and private schools could benefit. The Senate’s analysis of SB 1142 identified no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund.
Under the proposed regulations, eligible donors could receive a federal tax credit of up to $1,700, or $3,400 for married couples filing jointly, for qualifying contributions to scholarship organizations. Thirty states have already opted in. Arizona remains outside the program.
“A parent watching a child fall behind shouldn’t have to choose between paying the bills and paying for extra help,” said Senator Bolick. “These scholarships could give that family a way forward, including when their child attends a public school. My colleagues and I are asking Governor Hobbs to help make that possible. She asked for federal guidance before making a decision, and that guidance is now here. Let’s give Arizona families time to prepare so their children can benefit when the program begins in January.”
The lawmakers’ letter invites the Governor to work with legislators, educators, and families to prepare Arizona for participation and bring additional educational resources within reach of students across the state.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
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