Parent coalition urges Governor Hochul to join federal education tax-credit program

A group of religious-school parents is pressuring Gov. Kathy Hochul to opt New York into a federal tax-credit scheme that would make over 2.7 million state students eligible for “freedom scholarships.”

A coalition of parents from religious private schools, organized as Teach Coalition, is intensifying its campaign for Governor Kathy Hochul to enroll New York in the Education Freedom Tax Credit, a federal program that could qualify more than 2.7 million students for “freedom scholarships.” The group has funded a six-figure ad effort across digital and print outlets, highlighting backing from Jewish schools, Catholic schools, public-school families and community leaders.

The tax credit, signed into law by President Trump, offers a 100 percent federal deduction for donations up to $1,700 to approved scholarship organizations, which would then distribute funds for private-school tuition, tutoring, after-school programs or transportation. Advocates point to 31 states already participating, while the New York State United Teachers union leads a rival “New Yorkers for Public Schools” drive urging Hochul to reject the plan, arguing it would siphon money from public schools.

Hochul’s spokesperson confirmed the governor’s support but said the administration is waiting for the final federal regulations before making a decision. The debate reflects a broader clash over school-choice policies in the state.