Mississippi House Bill HB116

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 1/4/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

MAEP; define "at-risk pupil" and include a child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

Impact

The bill aims to enhance the educational support system in Mississippi by ensuring that a more comprehensive group of students, particularly those facing greater challenges due to autism, are recognized within the state's educational framework. The inclusion of children with autism allows for targeted programming and resources that can lead to better educational outcomes for this demographic. This redefinition aligns with national trends towards inclusive education and supports the need for schools to address diverse learning needs.

Summary

House Bill 116 seeks to amend Section 37-151-5 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to redefine the term 'at-risk pupil' in the context of the Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP). This amendment is particularly significant as it includes children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder under the definition of at-risk pupils, thereby broadening the criteria for students eligible for additional support under the education program.

Contention

While the bill's intent to provide better support for at-risk pupils and children with autism is largely seen as a positive move, there are concerns regarding the practical implications of such broadening definitions. Critics of the bill might express worries about the adequacy of funding and resources that can realistically be allocated to support these additional classifications of students. The bill seeks to ensure that funding levels set forth in the MAEP sufficiently meet the increased demands placed upon educational institutions, which is often a contentious point in legislative discussions around educational policy.