Florida’s largest K-12 teachers union is suing the state over its voucher program, which helps families pay to send their children to private or charter schools.
The Florida Education Association announced the lawsuit from the steps of the historic Capitol building. The group claims the program interferes with the state constitution’s promise for uniform, safe and high-quality public education.
Andrew Spar, the union’s head, said the voucher program has diverted billions away from traditional public schools.
“Parents want strong public schools. Businesses want strong public schools, and voters want strong public schools. Florida's policy makers must work with us to strengthen, not abandon our neighborhood public schools,” he said.
Spar says the voucher program has left traditional public schools underfunded while giving money to less-regulated charter and private schools.
Anastasios Kamoutsas, the state’s education commissioner, took to social media to respond to the announcement of the lawsuit:
Thanks to @GovRonDeSantis, every Florida family has access to universal school choice, empowering them to select the learning environment that best fits their child’s individual needs.
— Anastasios Kamoutsas (@StasiKamoutsas) May 5, 2026
We stand unapologetically convicted on the principle of always putting students first! https://t.co/aLJ1iPaoGy pic.twitter.com/ik3v5gvB9X
The Florida Legislature has been a champion of the voucher for decades, passing universal voucher expansion in 2023. Since then, public school districts across the state have had to close or consolidate campuses due to declining enrollment.