MS HB1161

Enacts the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, allowing Mississippi to enter into an agreement with other states to facilitate teacher licensure mobility across state lines.

Streamlines the process for teachers holding unencumbered licenses in member states to obtain equivalent licenses in Mississippi without additional requirements, with exceptions for active military members and eligible military spouses.

Establishes the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact Commission as a joint interstate agency comprised of state delegates to promulgate rules, manage finances, and enforce compact provisions with authority to discipline non-compliant member states.

Amends Section 37-3-2 of the Mississippi Code to require the State Department of Education to comply with the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact when processing applications from teachers holding unencumbered eligible licenses in other member states.

Takes effect July 1, 2023, and applies to initial licensure grants only, preserving each state's authority over license renewal requirements and ongoing educator regulation.