CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) - A bill aimed at helping lower-income students afford private schools has passed the Nevada Assembly.
Lawmakers approved AB165 in a 25-17 party-line vote on Wednesday.
It would allow businesses credit toward their modified business tax bill if they donate to a qualifying scholarship organization. Scholarships would go to students whose household income doesn't exceed 300 percent of the poverty level.
Gov. Brian Sandoval mentioned the program in his State of the State speech. Proponents say it would help students leave lower-achieving schools for better ones.
But Democrats are generally uneasy about the idea, saying it gives away state resources through the tax credits that should benefit public schools first.
An amendment caps state tax credits at $10.5 million over two years, and caps scholarships at $7,755 apiece.