Statement by Edward J. McElroy,
President, American Federation of Teachers,
On Florida Lawsuit To Remove School-Voucher Amendments from Ballot

Note: A group of Floridians representing teachers, parents, school administrators and other concerned citizens filed suit today to remove Amendments 7 and 9 from the general election ballot in November. The two amendments combined would eliminate state constitutional barriers that prevent state aid to religious schools. The lawsuit contends that the group that placed the amendments on the ballot did not have the authority to do so. It further contends that the language in Amendment 9 is confusing and misleading to voters.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The AFT strongly supports the efforts of teachers, parents and other concerned citizens to remove Amendments 7 and 9 from the Florida ballot. When weighing important public policy issues such as education, it’s essential that all sides play by the rules in an open, transparent manner. The lawsuit makes a strong case that the amendments—and the way they were placed on the ballot—violate the principles of democratic debate and responsible policymaking.

Legal issues aside, it’s disappointing to once again be distracted by the false promise of private school vouchers when our energies should be directed toward effective strategies known to improve public schools, which are attended by the vast majority of students. Extensive research shows that private school vouchers fail to boost student achievement, yet increase social inequalities and harm public schools by draining scarce tax dollars.

Across the nation, including Florida, AFT affiliates and school districts are working together to improve school conditions and academic outcomes in innovative, exciting ways. We must redouble our efforts to support this essential work. Florida should say “no” to the cruel hoax of vouchers once and for all.

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