PEFNC Statement on Gov. Stein's Proposed Budget

Mike Long, President of Parents for Educational Freedom (PEFNC) on Governor Stein's proposed budget and its impact on parents and students who rely on the Opportunity Scholarship Program:

"Governor Stein’s recommended budget is a direct attack on North Carolina families who rely on the Opportunity Scholarship Program to choose the best education for their children. His proposal would rip scholarships away from moderate-income families, including many in Tier 2. For example, a police officer and a medical receptionist raising two children could be deemed too wealthy to qualify for an Opportunity Scholarship.

For the first time, we are hearing a North Carolina governor openly propose taking educational opportunities away from parents and students who depend on them. Thousands of families have made plans, sacrifices, and life decisions based on the promise that North Carolina would stand with them. Governor Stein proposes pulling the rug out from under them.

The message his budget sends is clear: government knows better than parents, and a child’s future should depend on zip code or family income rather than their need and potential. North Carolina families deserve better. We are counting on the NC General Assembly to deliver a budget that protects educational freedom and keeps opportunity within reach for every child."