A Mississippi House bill proposing significant expansion of school choice policies failed on Tuesday after an 84-second deliberation in the Senate Education Committee. The bill, which would have allowed public funds to be used for private school tuition and homeschooling, is now considered dead.
Legislative Impasse
The Senate Committee’s swift rejection of the House’s omnibus education package signals a clear opposition to diverting public funds to private education. Despite the bill’s status as a priority for House Speaker Jason White, a Republican from West, and gaining traction nationally under the Trump administration, Senate leaders demonstrated their disapproval through a complete lack of discussion before voting against it.
Senate Education Committee Chairman Dennis DeBar, a Republican from Leakesville, stated the committee had “looked at it in depth” before the vote. Following DeBar’s remarks, Senator Brice Wiggins, a Republican from Pascagoula, moved to vote on the bill, resulting in a unanimous “nay.”
The House has pursued a strategy of presenting comprehensive, “omnibus” bills – a tactic also favored by the Trump administration – while the Senate has opted for a more targeted, “piecemeal” approach. This difference in strategy contributed to the impasse.
Political Fallout and Next Steps
Speaker White, visibly frustrated, declined to comment to reporters after the vote. His communications director, Taylor Spillman, prevented reporters from approaching him. Later, White took to social media, accusing Republican Senate leadership of aligning with “liberal organizations.”
Despite the setback, White asserted, “We are not deterred,” and suggested the issue would persist. He also indicated that Governor Tate Reeves might call a special session to revisit school choice policies. Alternatively, the House could attempt to reintroduce the provisions within a revised bill.
The Mississippi Democratic Party Chairman Cheikh Taylor praised the Senate’s decision, stating it affirmed a commitment to public education. However, Representative Jansen Owen, a Republican from Poplarville, cautioned that the fight was not over, pointing to past instances where initially defeated reforms were later enacted into law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “school choice”?
School choice policies allow parents to use public funds to support their children’s education in schools outside of the traditional public school system, including private schools and homeschooling.
How long did the Senate committee deliberate before rejecting the bill?
The Senate Education Committee deliberated for 84 seconds before voting against the House bill.
What options are available to Speaker White moving forward?
Speaker White could pursue a special session with Governor Tate Reeves, or attempt to revive parts of the bill by including them in a similar education bill.
As Mississippi lawmakers navigate these complex issues, what role should parental preferences play in shaping the future of public education funding?
