Montana House Bill HB533

Montana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/15/23

Caption

Prohibit discrimination by nonpublic school receiving tax credit scholarships

Impact

The bill amends existing laws, specifically Sections 15-30-3102 and 15-30-3103 of the Montana Code Annotated. It establishes clearer guidelines for what constitutes a 'qualified education provider'. For example, accredited, provisional accreditation, or non-accredited status must be explicitly disclosed to parents, ensuring transparency. Additionally, the bill mandates that student scholarship organizations must ensure compliance with these rules and guarantees that scholarships are broadly available to eligible students regardless of the specific provider they choose.

Summary

House Bill 533, introduced by E. Stafman, seeks to revise the laws surrounding tax credit scholarships in Montana, particularly focusing on the qualifications and limitations of educational providers receiving such scholarships. Notably, the legislation prohibits qualified education providers from promoting certain viewpoints related to race, religion, or culture as part of their instruction. This is designed to ensure that schools maintain a neutral educational environment while accepting tax benefits through scholarship programs.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding HB 533 is the interpretation of 'certain viewpoints' and how it may affect the curriculum presented at qualified education providers. Critics argue that the legislation could restrict academic freedom and the ability of educators to teach comprehensive courses that address historical and social issues. Proponents, on the other hand, argue that the bill is necessary to protect students from biased instruction and to create educational environments that respect diversity without imposing certain ideologies on students.