Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB169

Introduced

1/4/23

Refer

1/4/23

Failed

1/31/23

Caption

Compulsory-school-age child; revise definition of by increasing required age to 18 years.

Impact

If passed, HB169 would significantly impact state education laws by mandating school attendance for children up to the age of eighteen. This change is designed to address issues of dropout rates and educational disparities in the state. It could lead to increased supervision and enforcement efforts from school districts, as they will be required to report student absences more rigorously and manage enrollment procedures more meticulously. The intent behind this legislative adjustment is to cultivate a more educated workforce and enhance the overall educational standards in Mississippi.

Summary

House Bill 169 aims to amend the Mississippi Compulsory School Attendance Law by redefining the age parameters for compulsory school attendance. Specifically, the bill raises the maximum age for compulsory attendance from seventeen to eighteen years. This change reflects a growing recognition of the need for students to remain in educational settings longer, which proponents argue is essential for improving educational outcomes in the state. The bill establishes the legal framework for enforcing this attendance requirement and sets clear definitions for the terms related to school attendance, including what constitutes a 'compulsory-school-age child.'

Contention

However, the bill is not without its points of contention. Critics of HB169 raise concerns about the potential for increased administrative burdens on schools, particularly regarding the enforcement of attendance laws and monitoring absenteeism among students. There is also apprehension among some parents and educational advocates about the implications for families that may have legitimate reasons for a child’s nonattendance due to various socio-economic conditions. They argue that the state should consider more flexible education options that could accommodate different family situations without imposing strict attendance mandates.