This week, the Tennessee House of Representatives and Senate approved Governor Lee’s School voucher bill. The vote came to 54 – 44 in the House, and 20 – 13 in the Senate.

Many of those who voted against the bill turned out to be Republicans. The bill has come under criticism since its inception, with some believing that it would put a financial strain on public schools throughout the state.

The bill will provide a framework for public tax dollars to fund tuition for students wanting to attend private schools. The primary sponsors for the bill are House Majority Leader William Lamberth and Senator Jack Johnson.

Included in the bill is a one-time bonus for public school teachers and maintenance money for public school buildings across the state.