Tennessee Governor Bill Lee released a statement today, signaling the bill regarding school vouchers may be dead for this year’s legislative session.

“I am extremely disappointed for the families who will have to wait yet another year for the freedom to choose the right education for their child, especially when there is broad agreement that now is the time to bring universal school choice to Tennessee. While we made tremendous progress, unfortunately, it has become clear that there is not a pathway for the bill during this legislative session,” said Governor Lee.

“I want to thank the thousands of parents and students who made their voices heard, and I have never been more motivated to provide them with the ability to choose what’s best for their families. I also want to thank the speakers and leaders of both chambers for their commitment to pursuing education freedom next year. This is about every Tennessee student having the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their zip code or income level, and without question, empowering parents is the best way to make sure that happens.”

The school voucher program has been one of Governor Lee’s top legislative priorities, but the House and Senate remained largely divided on it.

It would have allowed 20,000 public school students to go to private institutions across the state and give them $7,000 each.