On March 2, 2025, the Utah House of Representatives introduced H.B. 2, a legislative bill aimed at amending the public education budget with a focus on enhancing scholarship opportunities for students with special education needs transferring to private schools. The bill outlines specific provisions for scholarship amounts based on the level of special education services received in public schools prior to the transfer.

Key provisions of H.B. 2 include a tiered scholarship system. Students who received an average of 180 minutes or more of special education services per day before transferring to a private school are eligible for scholarships not exceeding the lesser of 2.5 times the weighted pupil unit value or the private school tuition and fees. Conversely, students receiving less than 180 minutes of services qualify for a scholarship capped at 1.5 times the weighted pupil unit or the private school tuition.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that for students enrolled in half-day kindergarten or part-day preschool programs, the scholarship amount will be adjusted to 55% of the standard amounts. The legislation also addresses scenarios where students leave private schools before the end of a fiscal quarter, ensuring that scholarship funds are prorated based on attendance.

A notable aspect of H.B. 2 is the provision for random additional allocations for scholarships for full-day preschool programs, contingent on the availability of funds. This allocation is intended to support families seeking early education options for their children with special needs.

The introduction of H.B. 2 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and education advocates regarding its potential impact on public education funding and the accessibility of private education for students with special needs. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary support for families seeking tailored educational environments, while opponents express concerns about the implications for public school resources and the equitable distribution of educational funding.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its economic and social implications will be closely monitored. Experts suggest that if passed, H.B. 2 could reshape the landscape of educational choices for families in Utah, potentially increasing the demand for private schooling options among students with special needs. The ongoing debates surrounding the bill will likely influence its final form and the extent of its impact on Utah's education system.