Niagara Leader

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney, representing New York's 24th District, has introduced the High-Quality Charter Schools Act. She presented the bill with her colleagues: Congressman Kevin Kiley from California's 3rd District, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis from New York's 11th District, and Congressman Burgess Owens from Utah's 4th District. The proposed legislation aims to address the growing demand for high-quality charter schools by creating a 75% federal tax credit for charitable donations to nonprofit charter school organizations with proven success.

The cost of starting a new charter school can reach up to $20 million. To encourage more developments, organizations would be required to set up a separate account for eligible contributions, exclusively for expanding charter schools within five years, along with annual third-party financial and compliance audits.

Congresswoman Tenney stated, “Charter schools have a proven track record of success, working to ensure every student, regardless of zip code, is given the opportunity to succeed. The High-Quality Charter Schools Act provides a tax credit for charitable donations that will develop and expand the number of charter schools to provide even more students access to affordable school choice options."

Congressman Kiley, a former high school teacher, expressed the importance of educational options. “The High-Quality Charter Schools Act is a critical measure to expand educational opportunity, uphold rigorous accountability, and foster innovation within our public school system."

Congressman Owens emphasized the role of school choice in civil rights. “School choice is the civil rights issue of our time, and our nation’s future will be determined by whether we win the fight to ensure that every child—no matter their ZIP code—has access to high-quality education."

Congresswoman Malliotakis highlighted the local demand for charter schools. "Charter schools across the country, especially here in New York, are facing demand that far exceeds their capacity."

Dr. Eva Moskowitz, leader of a New York City network of schools, also voiced support. She said, “I commend Representatives Tenney, Malliotakis, Owens, and Kiley for standing up to the special interests and putting America’s parents first."

The legislation is set to complement the Education Choice for Children Act, enhancing tax credit provisions for tuition vouchers.