AUSTIN − As tensions rise over a GOP-led effort to create a private school voucher-like program in Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott addressed critics of his chief policy goal Wednesday in front of a gathering of grassroots conservatives in Austin.

If the author and all co-authors vote for House Bill 3, it would pass the lower chamber. The controversial program, also called school choice, would use public money to pay for children’s private school tuition.

The approach echoes President Donald Trump's rhetoric and underscores the stakes for Abbott after months of pressuring lawmakers to pass the priority measure.

Gov. Greg Abbott believes the Texas House will pass a school choice bill. On Wednesday, 75 Republicans signed on to co-author HB3. The House must still decide on which school choice bill to support. AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas House has enough votes to pass school choice legislation, Gov. Greg Abbott said Wednesday.

Texas Republicans’ demand for a school voucher-style program appears poised to clear a major hurdle as a slim majority of House members have signaled their support. Gov. Greg Abbott celebrated Wednesday that 75 Republican representatives signed on as co-authors to House Bill 3,

Texas Governor Abbott backs a bill for universal school choice, creating a divide over its impact on education.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says he has the votes in the state Legislature to pass a school voucher bill. The Senate passed its version of the bill earlier this month.