RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement after the House of Delegates passed SB131 and accepted the amendments to HB321, legislation that establishes a tax credit for donations by individuals or corporations to nonprofit organizations providing education improvement scholarships to low-income students or eligible students with disabilities in order for them to attend nonpublic elementary or secondary schools. “I want to applaud the House of Delegates for today passing an important component of my ‘Opportunity to Learn’ agenda that will greatly expand educational options for Virginia’s children. This legislation will truly spur private-sector investment in education by encouraging individuals and corporations to give to nonprofit organizations that provide scholarships for low-income students or students with disabilities to attend a non-public school. School choice is an important component of my ‘Opportunity to Learn” agenda, ensuring that every child, regardless of their zip code, has access to the high-quality education they deserve. I thank Senators Stanley, Obenshain and Stosch and Delegate Massie for their leadership on this issue, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling for his support by making the tie vote in the Senate, and the House of Delegates for strongly supporting the passage of this legislation today. I look forward to signing this bill when it reaches my desk.”