MS SB2156

Each local school board must adopt a policy allowing students to be excused from school for up to three class periods per week or 125 class periods per school year to attend released time courses in religious or moral instruction.

Students receive elective credit for completed released time courses based on transcripts from the independent entity providing instruction, evaluated using neutral secular criteria including classroom hours, course syllabus, assessment methods, and instructor qualifications.

School boards cannot expend district funds beyond de minimis administrative costs, and the independent release entity must maintain attendance records, provide transportation, and maintain adequate insurance to indemnify the school district.

Students cannot be excused during classes subject to state assessment requirements, and the superintendent or principal has reasonable discretion over scheduling; parents may terminate participation at any time with written notice.

Charter schools and virtual schools are exempt from these requirements, and the act takes effect July 1, 2025.