MS HB35

Increases the maximum age for compulsory school attendance from 17 to 18 years old, requiring children to attend school until they reach 18 years old on or before September 1 of the calendar year.

Applies to children who have attained or will attain age 6 years on or before September 1 and have not yet turned 18 on or before September 1, with exceptions for children enrolled in full-day public school kindergarten at age 5.

Maintains existing exemptions from compulsory attendance for children who are physically or mentally incapable of attending, enrolled in special education programs, or receiving legitimate home instruction.

Preserves current enforcement mechanisms including enrollment certificates, truancy reporting requirements, and youth court proceedings for violations.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.