JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi House of Representatives concluded the second week of the 2026 Regular Session on Friday, marked by the passage of a landmark school choice bill and significant updates to judicial districts and state infrastructure funding.
Education remained the central theme of the week’s proceedings. Following more than four hours of floor debate Thursday, lawmakers passed House Bill 2, known as the Mississippi Educational Freedom Program Act of 2026.
Landmark Education Reform: HB 2
The Mississippi Educational Freedom Program Act aims to revolutionize state education funding by establishing Magnolia Student Accounts (MSAs). Under this program, state education funds will “follow the student” to their choice of participating public or private schools, approved service providers, or home instruction programs.
Key provisions of the bill include:
Phased-In Eligibility: The program will roll out over several years, initially prioritizing low-income families and students with special needs.
Consolidation: Existing Education Scholarship Account (ESA) programs will be integrated into the new MSA framework.
Oversight: The Office of the State Treasurer will manage the funds, overseeing disbursements, vendor contracts, and mandatory audits.
Growth Caps: The legislation sets annual participation caps that will gradually increase to manage the program’s fiscal impact.
Opponents expressed concerns regarding the diversion of funds from the public school system, while supporters argued the bill empowers parents to find the best environment for their children’s specific needs.
Judicial Redistricting and Infrastructure Funding
Beyond education, the House moved forward with legislation to streamline the state’s legal and physical infrastructure.
The House passed a measure proposing revisions to the Fourth and Seventh Circuit Judicial Districts. The bill, which moved through the Judiciary B Committee, aims to improve judicial administration and caseload distribution within these regions.
Additionally, lawmakers addressed state revenue streams by passing legislation to revise the distribution of lottery and gaming fees. The approved measures seek to reallocate these funds to bolster the State Highway Fund and the Education Enhancement Fund, signaling a legislative priority to maintain both Mississippi’s roads and its classrooms.
Looking Ahead
The passage of HB 2 and the judicial redistricting bills marks a rapid start to the 2026 session. Having completed its business for the week, the House adjourned Friday morning.
The chamber is scheduled to reconvene at 4:00 p.m. on Monday to continue committee work and floor votes on pending legislation.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
