Maddy summaryHB 1078 removes barriers for students with disabilities using Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) by eliminating the requirement for parents to certify school acceptance for services or provide IEP-specific documentation. It also removes waitlist restrictions for ESA eligibility and changes reimbursement payments from quarterly to monthly. The bill creates a new "Foster Child Education Scholarship Account" (FESA) program, funding foster children's education at the state's standard student base amount, with specific eligibility criteria and accountability standards for schools. These changes aim to streamline access to educational services for eligible students while maintaining program oversight through biennial reporting and administrative requirements.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 60) is a symbolic recognition by the Mississippi House of Representatives of the creation of the Mississippi-Israel Joint Legislative Caucus. It celebrates the caucus's goal to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Mississippi and Israel through shared values and collaborative initiatives. The resolution has no policy impact or funding provisions - it solely acknowledges the caucus's formation and purpose. As a procedural resolution, it does not affect laws, regulations, or direct any specific group.
Maddy summaryHB 1192 brings forward an existing tax credit provision allowing businesses to claim credits against income, insurance premium, and property taxes when donating to specific charities. It directly affects Mississippi businesses (corporations, LLCs, partnerships) that contribute to eligible organizations serving children in foster care, providing educational services, or supporting children with disabilities. The credit is capped at 50% of a business’s tax liability for the year, requires charities to certify they don’t fund or support abortion services, and mandates annual documentation to the state Department of Revenue.
Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Mississippi's Commissioner of Insurance to establish and operate a state health insurance exchange to help residents access affordable coverage. It creates a dedicated trust fund financed by a fee of up to 3.5% on insurance premiums sold on the exchange to cover the costs of running the program. The legislation also allows the state to use federal funds for the exchange and directs the existing health risk pool to build an online tool that helps consumers compare health plans, providers, and drug prices. Additionally, the bill amends state code to define key terms and clarify how the exchange will function within Mississippi's insurance system.
Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the State of Mississippi to issue up to $95 million in revenue bonds to fund the construction of a new warehouse for the Department of Revenue's Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. To repay the debt on these bonds, the legislation increases the bailment fee charged on stored alcoholic beverages and establishes a special fund to manage loan payments. Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Finance and Administration to select a suitable site within 50 miles of the new state capitol building and requires a construction contract to be signed by October 1, 2024.