In New Hampshire, a program that gives businesses tax credits for funding scholarships that send students to private or public schools has been declared unconstitutional. However, a judge says it can continue as long as none of the money goes to religious schools.
The program's supporters argue it provides educational choice to low-income students. Opponents call it a back-door voucher system that diverts taxpayer money to religious schools.
In a ruling Monday, a judge sided with the New Hampshire Civil Liberties Union, which challenged the program on behalf of a group of taxpayers.
The judge said that while parents have the right to choose a religious education, the government is expressly forbidden from funding it.
The director of the scholarship organization said the group will appeal the ruling.
