MS HB48

Suspends home rule authority for local school districts for a period of 3-5 years, effective July 1, 2016, with the duration determined by the State Board of Education and State Department of Education following a statewide governance assessment.

Requires local school boards to relinquish all governing power and authority to the State Department of Education upon notification, though boards continue to serve in an advisory capacity.

Grants the State Department of Education plenary authority over all decision-making and governance previously exercised by local school boards under home rule.

Permits the State Board of Education and Department to transfer certain governing matters back to local school boards on a phased-in basis after the first year of state control, based on administrative necessity.

Repeals the improvement period provisions effective July 1, 2021, restoring home rule authority to local school districts.