Rep. Kay McIff, R-Richfield, questioned whether a free-market model would notch up public education, which must educate all and abide by stricter state and federal rules like No Child Left Behind. "Truth is, after all the competition is over, public education will be left to pick up the pieces."

The people's will?

The House has voted once before on vouchers or tuition tax credits, in 2005. The measure went down 34-40, stunning advocates who thought they had the needed 38 votes, plus two to spare.

The 2006 election brought 19 new faces to the House.

The UEA and Utah PTA say arms were twisted pretty hard before Friday's vote.

Rep. Kory Holdaway, R-Taylorsville, who opposes the bill, attempted to appeal to colleagues' consciences.

"We have been inundated with propaganda from outside of the state relative to this 'choice issue' ... and many of you have been under a great deal of pressure since the election closed, frankly," Holdaway said in an impassioned speech.

"The people in my district have told me ... this is not for us. This is not what we elected you to represent us for. I'm here to represent them ..., and I would respectfully submit to each one of you, you are the same," Holdaway said.

"Don't listen to the lobbyists that have been hired; listen to the people who have elected you."

Rep. Brad Last, R-St. George, changed his vote from a "no" in the House Education Standing Committee to a "yes" in Friday's vote. He said he has a responsibility to continue to study and redefine his position on issues.

"I believe history will demonstrate to supporters and detractors that this is a good choice. To those of you in public education who want to kill me right now, I'm really sorry. I understand your pain," Last said during the floor debate.

"I would ask you, go read this bill, and don't say a word to me until you read this bill. And those of you who want to pat me on the back, I would ask you, stay away from me.... Let me go hide for awhile."

What happened — and what's next?

• The House: Representatives passed a private-school tuition voucher measure, 38-37. Each qualifying student could receive $500-$3,000 per year.

• The Senate: Senators expect to pass the bill.

• The governor: Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. says he is inclined to sign it into law.

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Contributing: Tiffany Erickson, Bob Bernick Jr.

E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com