CSEA has joined a coalition of more than 60 New York-based labor unions, educational associations, parent organizations, and civic groups that are united in opposition to New York’s participation in President Donald Trump’s taxpayer-funded private school voucher scheme.
The federal voucher program, which is part of the Trump administration’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” takes effect Jan. 1, 2027, but only in states where the governor opts in. Along with our coalition partners, CSEA is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to reject the program in New York.
Thousands of New Yorkers have signed a petition asking Hochul to not opt into the program, which would take public money away from public schools.
The coalition has also shown documented evidence of how private school voucher programs in other states have contributed to budget shortfalls and fueled waste and abuse of education funding.
“Public schools have been the foundation of opportunity in communities across New York,” said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan. “Taking resources away from that system hurts students, families and the dedicated workers who support them every day. CSEA stands with our partners in calling for New York to protect and strengthen public education for all.”
Learn more about the coalition and threats to public education