State House Week Two summary

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — The second week of the 2026 Regular Session of the Mississippi Legislature has concluded.

The House continued its work on a variety of issues, with education remaining the main focus.
Lawmakers engaged in discussions and committee work on several measures related to schools, families, and educational policy, as well as legislation on judicial structure and state funding.

The House took up legislation proposing revisions to the Fourth and Seventh Circuit Judicial Districts. After review and consideration by the Judiciary B Committee, the bill was brought to the House floor, where it passed. Lawmakers discussed aspects of judicial administration and the potential consequences for the districts involved. In addition, the House considered legislation related to lottery and gaming fees, which included proposals to revise the distribution of these funds to support the State Highway Fund and the Education Enhancement Fund. These measures were reviewed by the Transportation Committee, and after discussion on funding priorities and the potential impact on state programs and projects, they were brought to the House floor and passed.

Education policy remained at the forefront during the week. On Tuesday, the House Education Committee met to consider House Bill 2, the Mississippi Educational Freedom Program Act of 2026. The committee engaged in extensive discussion, carefully reviewing various perspectives and potential implications of the bill. Following deliberation, the committee approved the measure and sent it to the full House for further consideration.

On Thursday, HB 2 was debated on the House floor for over 4.5 hours. Lawmakers participated in an insightful discussion that included perspectives from both supporters and opponents of the bill. Topics addressed included the potential effects of school choice and expanding educational opportunities. The debate allowed members to present questions, concerns, and points of support, ensuring a thorough review of the measure before the chamber. After careful consideration, HB 2 was passed by the House and will continue through the legislative process.

The Mississippi Educational Freedom Program Act of 2026 establishes Magnolia Student Accounts (MSAs) for eligible students and creates an education choice program. These accounts would allow state education funds to follow students to participating schools, public or private, approved education service providers, or legitimate home instruction programs. The act phases in eligibility over several years, prioritizing low-income families and students with special needs. It also integrates existing Education Scholarship Account (ESA) programs into the new framework and sets caps on yearly participation that gradually increase. The Office of the State Treasurer would serve as the fund manager, with authority over eligibility, disbursements, vendor contracts, audits, and rule enforcement.

With the passage of these measures, the House concluded another week of focused work on education and state policy. The House is adjourned until 4:00 p.m. on Monday.