MS SB2599

ESA funding amount changed from fixed $6,500 to equivalent of student base amount under total funding formula, adjusted annually.

Parents, guardians, eligible schools, or educational service providers may request reimbursement for qualifying expenses within 30 days (or until June 30 if student returns after May 1) after student returns to public school; remaining funds distributed to home school district.

Department must implement application or authorization process to determine eligibility of nonpublic schools to participate in ESA program.

Eligible schools must advise parents of students qualifying for Nate Rogers scholarships, Dyslexia Therapy scholarships, and other scholarship programs to apply for those instead of ESA.

Participating students required to take same pre-assessment at beginning and post-assessment at end of school year using nationally standardized test, state board-approved screener, or performance-based assessment if standard assessments inappropriate due to severity of disability.