HB 2249 – Costly new teacher scholarship program

HB 2249 creates a taxpayer-funded scholarship program offering up to $40,000 to students who agree to teach in public or charter schools after graduation. While attempting to address teacher shortages, the proposal introduces a massive new recurring government expense, projected to cost taxpayers over $114 million annually within five years, growing government spending during a time when Texas should be prioritizing broad-based tax relief. Its reliance on state administration also adds new government bureaucracy, with 5 additional state employees needed. This bill substantially grows the size and scope of government and should be opposed.