This article will be updated with the latest news on the bill.
Do you live in Mississippi? A consequential bill that violates the pillars of education independence and compromises homeschool freedoms is moving its way through your state legislature.
HB2 Bill Summary
HB2 would establish the Mississippi Student Funding Framework, which sets up government-managed education accounts that let public tax dollars be used for non-public education.
The bill would establish a school choice program using “Magnolia Student Accounts” (MSAs) that allow public funds to go to private education providers, including participating homeschool families.
HB2 Frequently Asked Questions
- How is the program financed? Funds are collected under compulsory taxation.
- Where is the money held? Funds are deposited into the Education Freedom Fund, a special fund inside the Mississippi State Treasury.
- Who is eligible for MSAs? MSAs offers 12,500 slots initially and prioritizes low-income families with the goal of expanding to a universal system.
- How much money can families get? Families can get up to $7,000 per child per academic year.
- How much money can homeschool families get? Homeschooling families can get an additional $1,000 voucher per academic year.
- How is the money given to families? Funds are distributed through state-created accounts and grants.
HB2 Pillar Violations
This bill violates all four pillars of education independence.
| Independent Parents | Violated: HB2 determines eligibility, approved uses, and compliance requirements. |
| Independent Funding | Violated: HB2 finances through compulsory public revenue distributed via the state treasury. |
| Independent Pursuit | Violated: HB2 operates within a state-funded and state-regulated framework. |
| Independent Ideas | Violated: HB2 influences education through financing and regulatory conditions. |
Make Your Opposition Known
Free citizens are the first line of defense against dangerous policies. This is an alarming bill that has the potential to compromise independent private education in Mississippi. So, it is important, whether you are a homeschool parent, private school parent, or a concerned citizen, that you make your voice known.
- Contact your legislators. Find your legislator(s) and write them an email or call their office to oppose HB2.
- Inform your neighbors. There is strength in numbers. It is important that your neighbors, friends, and family know about this consequential bill and are encouraged to contact their representatives.
Not sure how to contact your legislators? You are not alone! Use our Legislator Communication Templates to write a letter or email, make a phone call, or request a meeting with your legislators.
Stay Informed in the Network
Be sure you are a member of the Education Independence Network so that we can notify you as this bill continues to make its way through the legislature.
