Governor Moore Questions Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Implementation

Wes Moore sent a letter to Scott Bessent on October 21, 2026, outlining several concerns regarding the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit. Moore questioned whether the program would adequately serve children in poverty, protect students from discrimination, and provide sufficient accountability.

The Federal Scholarship Tax Credit allows eligible taxpayers to receive a federal income tax credit of up to $1,700 for contributions to qualifying scholarship granting organizations (SGOs). The credit is federal and voluntary, and participation does not require Maryland to reduce funding for its public schools, though administrative oversight is necessary.