Louisiana Senate President Cameron Henry announced Tuesday that his chamber will limit funding for Gov. Jeff Landry’s LA GATOR private school voucher program to $50 million—far less than the $94 million proposed by the governor and the House. The program, launching in 2025–26, would cover tuition and education expenses for 6,000 students, rather than the 11,300 envisioned by Landry.
Henry emphasized that the Senate’s original agreement was to roll out LA GATOR cautiously, covering only existing voucher recipients. He voiced concern about long-term budget strain, noting that similar programs in Florida and Texas have ballooned in cost and primarily benefit families already paying for private school.
Despite political pressure and rallies led by Landry, Henry said some conservative lawmakers remain skeptical. He proposed redirecting the additional $44 million to public tutoring programs, teacher pay raises in high-need areas, and prison support.
Voucher advocates cite educational freedom, while critics point to underwhelming results from Louisiana’s current voucher system, launched under former Gov. Bobby Jindal. Data shows those students have underperformed compared to public school peers despite $500 million in funding.
A final budget agreement between the Senate and House is due by June 12.
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