WASHINGTON—Louisiana became the 11th state to enact a universal education savings account, following Alabama earlier this year. The state senate passed the Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (GATOR) bill that creates a new K-12 education savings account policy. This GATOR Scholarship program will eventually be open to all school-aged children.  

Heritage Foundation research fellow Jason Bedrick made the following statement: 

“Louisiana lawmakers should be applauded for enacting the Louisiana GATOR Scholarship program, which will dramatically expand education freedom and choice in the Pelican State.

“The Louisiana GATOR Scholarship will replace the state’s limited and over-regulated voucher program with a well-designed education savings account policy that will give all Louisiana families the freedom and flexibility to customize their child’s education.  

“Soon, all Louisiana families will be able to choose the learning environments that align with their values and work best for their children.”