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Recent Editions
Education Slice
National
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a significant case examining whether Colorado can deny state-funded preschool subsidies to Catholic schools that do not comply with nondiscrimination rules requiring admission of LGBTQ+ families. The case stems from a broader legal challenge by administrators of two Catholic preschools, who argue that the state’s conditions for funding violate their First Amendment rights by forcing them to choose between their religious beliefs and access to public support. At the center of the dispute is Colorado’s universal preschool program, approved by voters in 2020, which provides free early education to tens of thousands of children. To participate, schools must agree to offer equal access regardless of factors such as religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, income level, or disability. State officials argue these requirements are essential to ensure fair access to publicly funded services. Lower courts have sided with Colorado, ruling that the law applies equally to all participating schools and does not target religious institutions specifically. Judges relied on the Supreme Court’s 1990 decision in Employment Division v. Smith, which allows neutral, generally applicable laws to stand even if they incidentally burden religious practices. However, the Catholic schools argue that this precedent has led to inconsistent outcomes and should be reconsidered, particularly in light of more recent rulings that have expanded protections for religious institutions in public funding programs. The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments in the fall.
Full Issue
Education Slice
California
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a significant case examining whether Colorado can deny state-funded preschool subsidies to Catholic schools that do not comply with nondiscrimination rules requiring admission of LGBTQ+ families. The case stems from a broader legal challenge by administrators of two Catholic preschools, who argue that the state’s conditions for funding violate their First Amendment rights by forcing them to choose between their religious beliefs and access to public support. At the center of the dispute is Colorado’s universal preschool program, approved by voters in 2020, which provides free early education to tens of thousands of children. To participate, schools must agree to offer equal access regardless of factors such as religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, income level, or disability. State officials argue these requirements are essential to ensure fair access to publicly funded services. Lower courts have sided with Colorado, ruling that the law applies equally to all participating schools and does not target religious institutions specifically. Judges relied on the Supreme Court’s 1990 decision in Employment Division v. Smith, which allows neutral, generally applicable laws to stand even if they incidentally burden religious practices. However, the Catholic schools argue that this precedent has led to inconsistent outcomes and should be reconsidered, particularly in light of more recent rulings that have expanded protections for religious institutions in public funding programs. The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments in the fall.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Texas
State Rep. Richard Peña Raymond, representing District 42, expressed concerns about the Texas Education Freedom Accounts program established by Senate Bill 2. He believes many families may return to public schools after realizing the costs associated with private education. "Public resources should be for public schools," Raymond said, emphasizing the need to invest in public education. The program, launching in the 2026-27 school year, allocates $1bn for private school tuition and educational services. However, 77% of applicants are already enrolled in private schools, raising questions about its benefits for lower-income families. Raymond noted that many parents might face additional tuition costs beyond the state funding, making the program potentially inaccessible for some. He anticipates an increase in applications by the 2027-28 school year but remains skeptical about the program's long-term impact on public education.
Full Issue
Education Slice
Florida
Florida's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) now prohibits the purchase of "junk food" items, including soda, energy drinks, candy, and ultra-processed desserts. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) implemented this policy to encourage healthier food choices among low-income households. "Florida is committed to promoting the health and well-being of families who participate in SNAP," said DCF's Healthy SNAP Florida. The initiative aims to "alleviate hunger and combat malnutrition" by steering beneficiaries towards more nutritious options. This change aligns with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's findings that about one in five U.S. children and adolescents is obese, with higher rates among Hispanic and Black Americans.
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