MS HB1322

Establishes the "Mississippi Better Sight for Better Learning Program" requiring the State Board of Education to recommend face-to-face comprehensive eye examinations for first-grade students whose initial eye screening indicates a need.

Comprehensive eye examinations must be completed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist by January 1 of the child's first-grade year.

School principals or directors must collect evidence of the comprehensive eye examination from parents or guardians, or accept a signed opt-out request.

Exempts students who had a face-to-face comprehensive eye examination before initial enrollment in public school from the requirement.

Continues the existing student vision screening program for grades K-12 to identify students needing eye care services, with state funding subject to legislative appropriation.

Effective date: July 1, 2019.