General Fund; FY2027 appropriation to the Department of Education for public school districts to fund autism specialists.

SB 3233 appropriates $10 million from Mississippi’s General Fund for the 2026-2027 fiscal year to help public school districts hire autism specialists, provide training for teachers working with students who have special needs, and fund sensory and instructional supports. The bill directly affects public school districts across Mississippi by providing state funding to address needs of students with autism and other exceptionalities. Key provisions include allocating funds specifically for autism specialists, evidence-based educator training, and sensory/instructional resources, all managed through the Department of Education. The funding covers the 2026-2027 school year, beginning July 1, 2026.