Advocates argue that the amendment would provide alternatives for students stuck in failing public schools, like those in Louisville, and claim that school choice leads to better outcomes in public and private education alike.
However, much of the evidence provided in support of the amendment appears to be vague or unsupported, with misleading claims made in advertisements by groups such as the Protect Freedom PAC and public figures like U.S. Sen. Rand Paul and his wife, Kelley Paul.
Opponents of the amendment argue that it could divert much-needed public funds away from public schools, exacerbating inequalities and further burdening a system that is already struggling to provide competitive teacher pay and adequate resources for students.
Critics also note that the amendment’s language is misleading, framing it as a measure that simply increases parental choice in education, even though many parents already have options.
Ultimately, the debate over Amendment 2 raises broader concerns about education funding, rural-urban disparities, and the role of public schools in Kentucky.
If the amendment fails, it could signal that voters want the state legislature to focus on adequately funding public schools rather than pursuing broad school choice policies.