Senator Ochoa Boke opposes SB 685, citing late amendments and practical concerns

Senator Ochoa Boke questioned how SB 685 would work in practice and said she received the analysis only at the hearing, limiting her ability to evaluate late language changes. During questioning she said the bill "is a thinly veiled attempt to restrict aid to schools, which allow sectarian content," and expressed concern about parents' choices and operational logistics.

Ochoa Boke told colleagues she was "not going to be supporting this bill today" and emphasized the need for more stakeholder engagement to understand how schools would navigate separating sectarian curriculum from contracted, state‑funded nonsectarian IEP services. She invited further conversations with schools and stakeholders before endorsing the approach.

Senator Cabaldon and other supporters countered that the bill corrects an existing statutory barrier created by prior law and court rulings; Cabaldon said the measure would allow sectarian schools to apply for contracts to provide nonsectarian services and described the approach as carefully targeted to keep public funds from paying for religious instruction.

Ochoa Boke recorded the lone no vote on the committee roll call; sponsors and the CDE said implementation details would be worked out with stakeholders after the bill advances.