Pearland Republican Jeff Barry has long been skeptical of school vouchers, but on Thursday morning he voted to create what could become the largest voucher program in the nation. Barry, a freshman House lawmaker,

The House approved a school voucher plan, clearing a hurdle that had stood in the way of a Gov. Greg Abbott priority. One last hurdle remains.

The Texas House of Representatives voted to give initial approval to a $1 billion program that will see taxpayer money fund private school fees, a top priority of Gov. Greg Abbott and one he says will improve choice for parents and children.