The House of Representatives has thrown down a marker in Pennsylvania’s upcoming 2017-18 budget negotiations by passing legislation to boost funding for popular tax credit programs that support school choice opportunities.

By a 147-39 bi-partisan vote, the chamber approved legislation, sponsored by House Speaker Mike Turzai, would increase funding for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program to $175 million from the current $125 million.

It also would raise the amount of tax credits for the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit program to $75 million from the current $50 million.

Both programs give state tax breaks to businesses that make contributions to educational programs.

Source: Pa. House backs $75 million expansion of school choice tax credit programs | PennLive.com