Rep. Rob Roberson

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes amending Mississippi's existing Mississippi Virtual Public School Program framework. It would establish the program under the State Department of Education, requiring it to operate as a public school with equitable resources, free enrollment for all Mississippi-resident students meeting residency requirements, and state/local funding for instructional materials and technology access. Private providers could be selected through a formal process to manage the program, while teachers must meet Mississippi licensure standards. The bill focuses on expanding virtual learning options to address achievement gaps and low-performing school districts, without creating new funding mechanisms.

Maddy summaryHB 881 removes a requirement that physical therapists working at Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) centers in Mississippi must have prior work experience. This directly affects physical therapists seeking employment at PPEC facilities by eliminating a previous licensing barrier. The bill amends Mississippi Code § 41-125-19 to explicitly state that licensing rules may not mandate such experience. However, the bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and is no longer active.

Maddy summaryHB 1526 would have redirected $1.4 million in the FY 2025 state budget to continue Mississippi's existing school safety program. The bill specifically amended an appropriations section to ensure this funding was available for the program's ongoing operation. It directly affected Mississippi public schools and the State Department of Education, which administers the program. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and did not become law.

Maddy summaryHB 1626, the "Mathematics Proficiency and Intervention Act," requires Mississippi school districts to implement a multi-level support system for K-3 students struggling with math. Key provisions include mandating universal math screeners within 30 days of each school year (starting 2025-2026), requiring teachers to be trained on diagnostic tools, and creating individualized "Mathematics Improvement Plans" for students needing accelerated help. It directly affects K-3 students, teachers, and school districts by requiring evidence-based interventions, quarterly parent reports, and the use of specific assessments by 2026. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and never became law.

Maddy summaryHB 1629 would create regional high schools on Mississippi college campuses, allowing students in grades 9-12 to earn both a high school diploma and up to 60 tuition-free college credits (equivalent to two years of coursework) while attending. The bill requires state education funds to flow directly to participating colleges for these programs, rather than traditional high schools, and mandates that all students - especially those from underserved groups - have equal access through a lottery system if seats are limited. It also requires these schools to meet state accountability standards, ensure non-discriminatory practices, and coordinate transportation for students. The law aims to increase high school and college completion rates by integrating secondary and postsecondary education.

Maddy summaryHB 1625 would allow Mississippi's State Board of Education (SBE) to impose a fine instead of suspending the license of appointed school superintendents, principals, or licensed employees who abandon their jobs without proper release from their contracts. Currently, the SBE can only suspend licenses for such breaches, but this bill would add fines as an alternative penalty. The change applies specifically to cases where employees leave without being formally released per contract terms. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and was never enacted.

Maddy summaryHB 878 created the Mississippi School Safety Task Force, composed of 25 members including education leaders, law enforcement officials, school superintendents, and community representatives (like a student and parent). The task force was required to study school safety best practices, prevent violence, and submit annual reports to the legislature. It also amended an existing law (Section 37-3-83) to establish a School Safety Grant Program, enabling school districts to apply for funding for metal detectors, surveillance systems, safety training, and other equipment. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and never became law.

Maddy summaryThis Mississippi bill clarifies how the 120-day driver's license suspension for DUI convictions is calculated, specifying that the suspension period begins 21 days after a conviction or non-adjudication. It also establishes stricter penalties for drivers under the legal drinking age, including longer suspension times and mandatory interlock-restricted licenses for repeat offenders. The legislation updates administrative procedures to ensure consistent application of these timelines and penalties across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the city of Starkville, Mississippi, to ask the state Public Service Commission to investigate whether rural water associations serving the city are providing adequate water service. If the commission determines that a rural water association is failing to provide sufficient water, the city would be allowed to require that association to sell its water infrastructure, such as pipes and meters, to the city. Under this plan, the city would purchase these necessary assets at a fair market value determined by an independent appraisal to ensure reliable water supply for residents. The legislation specifically targets nonprofit rural water associations holding public convenience certificates within the city limits and would take effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Mississippi to join the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, a national agreement designed to help teachers move more easily between states. The compact creates a streamlined process for teachers with valid licenses in one member state to obtain equivalent licensure in another, with special provisions to assist military spouses relocating due to their spouse's service. While the agreement establishes a framework for recognizing out-of-state credentials, each state retains the final authority to determine which licenses are equivalent and to set any additional requirements for employment. By participating, Mississippi aims to remove barriers that currently make it difficult for qualified educators to find jobs in different states.