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PHOENIX (AP) - Gov. Jan Brewer has signed a bill that will allow students to pay for a private education using public funds.

The Arizona Republic reports more children are now eligible for a state program where parents of disabled students can receive a debit card to pay for educational expenses, including private-school tuition.

The legislation, which Brewer enacted Monday, extends the Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Accounts to children attending schools that have received a poor grade from the state.

Supporters say the statute will give students more education choices. Critics say the legislation essentially creates a school voucher system, leaving public schools with few resources.

Families will be able to apply for the expanded accounts this fall.