Topeka ? The Libertarian candidates for governor and lieutenant governor have unveiled a “school choice” proposal that they said will improve education and save tax dollars.

“This bill turns to the people of Kansas to help address both our education and budget crises,” said Andrew Gray, who is the Libertarian candidate for governor.

The Kansas Education Liberty Act authorizes non-profit organizations to grant scholarships to students to attend a private or public school of their parents’ choice.

People or corporations that donate to these non-profit groups could remove up to 50 percent of their state income tax liability.

Funding to public schools would be reduced by $3,600 for each student who uses the new program to go to a private school, but since that is less than the average cost per student of $6,300, public schools will have more money per student, said Libertarian Lt. Gov. candidate Stacey Davis.

Davis said similar programs have been enacted in 10 states and Washington, D.C.

Gray and Davis said they hope the Legislature will take up their proposal in the 2011 legislative session.