MS HB136

Schools must annually report unlawful activity to local school districts, which then submit quarterly reports to the State Department of Education for at least two years beginning July 1, 2020.

State Department of Education must release annual public reports via the MAARS database showing the number of students referred to the juvenile justice system, broken down by race and ethnicity.

State Department of Education must develop evidence-based training curriculum by July 1, 2021, covering alternatives to arrest, cultural competency, restorative justice, positive behavior intervention, and reduction of law enforcement referrals.

State Department of Education must develop collaboration strategies for school districts, law enforcement, and community organizations to reduce student involvement in the juvenile justice system, including de-escalation methods and elimination of zero tolerance policies.

Act takes effect July 1, 2020.