MS HB970

Increases the compulsory school attendance age from 17 to 18 years old, requiring attendance until graduation from high school.

Allows students aged 17 or 18 to withdraw from school with written parental consent if an exit interview is conducted where the student acknowledges withdrawal reduces future earning potential and increases unemployment likelihood.

Requires schools to submit daily reports of all student absences (both excused and unexcused) to the school attendance officer.

Establishes penalties for parents of compulsory-school-age children who fail to ensure attendance, including fines up to $50 per day of absence and up to $500 or six months imprisonment if absences exceed 30 school days annually.

Requires school attendance officers to make immediate contact with parents upon receipt of daily absence notices to discuss the importance of regular attendance and warn of potential penalties.