Hochul adds New York to Trump admin's school choice program despite objections from teachers union

New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul signed up the state Friday to the Trump administration's school choice program despite opposition from teachers unions.

The initiative, known as the Education Freedom Tax Credit, allows individual taxpayers to receive up to a $1,700 dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit for donations made to private and non-profit scholarship-granting organizations.

"Every parent wants their child to have a great education and the best possible chance to succeed. That’s what guides my decisions as governor," Hochul said. "New York’s public schools are the backbone of communities across this state. That’s why I’ve made historic investments in public education, increasing school funding by more than $10 billion."

New York's addition comes after a coalition of teachers unions and other public school advocates launched a petition demanding that Hochul reject the program, arguing it would benefit private school kids with tuition instead of going to children in public schools, according to Fox News.

The governor claimed she could not "leave money on the table when it could help our kids," and has been engaging with leaders who have committed to using the program to support public school students.

"I look forward to working with education leaders across the state to make sure these resources reach students in every community. My commitment to public education has not changed, and it never will," she said.

The program will launch on January 1, 2027.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.