MS SB2097

Amends Mississippi Code Section 27-7-17 to allow parents a state income tax deduction for educational expenses incurred for dependent children attending qualified private schools or homeschool programs in Mississippi.

Defines "education expenditure" to include tuition, fees, computer software, textbooks, workbooks, curricula, and school supplies used for academic instruction, but excludes personal computers.

Permits a deduction of $5,000 per dependent child per taxable year for whom the taxpayer made qualifying education expenditures; married couples are entitled to only one deduction total.

Applies only to dependent children who are eligible for free public school education in Mississippi, qualify as dependents under federal tax code, and are natural/adopted children or court-appointed dependents of the taxpayer.

Takes effect July 1, 2019, for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2018.