MS HB1283

Amends Mississippi Code Section 37-13-91 to lower the compulsory school attendance age from six (6) years to five (5) years, making kindergarten-age children subject to the compulsory attendance law.

Requires parents, guardians, or custodians of five-year-old children to enroll them in a public school, nonpublic school, or legitimate home instruction program.

Exempts children who are physically, mentally, or emotionally incapable of attending school (with medical documentation), enrolled in special education programs, or in legitimate home instruction programs.

Establishes penalties for non-compliance, including prosecution for contributing to child neglect under Section 97-5-39 if a child is not enrolled within 18 calendar days of the school year start or accumulates 12 unlawful absences.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.