In a groundbreaking decision, the Supreme Court ruling on Thursday has shattered the argument against school choice in our state. Lawmakers who have long opposed the idea of using government funds for private schools have been dealt a significant blow.
During the pandemic, Mississippi received a substantial amount of federal money, which the state legislature authorized to be distributed to private schools for infrastructure improvements. This move sparked a legal challenge from the activist group Parents for Public Schools, who argued that allocating public funds to private schools was unconstitutional.
However, the Supreme Court ruling ultimately favored educational freedom, debunking the claim that school choice is unconstitutional. This victory not only undermines anti-school choice activists but also exposes lawmakers who have used this excuse to avoid supporting school choice.
Despite a supposedly conservative majority in the state legislature, conservative legislation has been lacking in recent sessions. Bills addressing DEI dogma in public universities, restoring the Right of Initiative, and removing restrictive healthcare laws have all failed to gain traction.
However, the successful reform in education funding demonstrates that change is possible. When Speaker White and Governor Reeves took a strong stance, the opposition crumbled. Perhaps this approach is the key to overcoming the forces of intransigence and achieving meaningful change in our state.