Community and junior colleges; waive all tuition and costs for graduates of Mississippi high schools.

HB 238 would require Mississippi public community and junior colleges to waive all tuition, required fees, on-campus housing, meal plans, and required course materials for graduates of Mississippi high schools. To qualify, students must be Mississippi residents, have graduated within two years, enroll for the first time (including dual credit coursework), and meet the college’s general admission requirements. The waiver covers costs up to the actual cost of attendance, excludes school supplies and extracurricular fees, and requires academic progress for renewal. The bill also mandates specific state funding through line-item appropriations starting in 2026-2027 to cover waived tuition costs. The bill died in committee on February 3, 2026, and was never enacted.