Analysis shows Ohio’s new universal voucher program already exceeds cost estimates

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The cost of Ohio’s new universal school voucher program already appears to be more expensive than initially estimated. That’s according to a published report that also notes the cost will continue to grow, as the application deadline is more than a month away. An analysis by The Columbus Dispatch found the state has received applications totaling approximately $432 million for the 2023-2024 school year, which is $34 million more than forecasted by the Legislative Service Commission. Meanwhile, the state education department says its receiving between 900 and 1,000 applications daily.