MS SB2301

Requires every Mississippi public school district and charter school to adopt a policy providing students and employees an opportunity to participate in daily prayer and Bible or religious text reading beginning with the 2026-2027 school year

Participation requires a signed consent form from employees or parents/guardians of students that includes an express waiver of the right to bring legal claims under state or federal law, including First Amendment Establishment Clause claims

Prohibits prayer or religious readings over public address systems and specifies these activities cannot substitute for instructional time

Requires policies to ensure non-participating individuals are not knowingly exposed to prayers or readings; activities may occur before school hours or only in areas where all present have submitted consent forms

The Attorney General must provide compliance guidance and model consent forms upon request, and will defend school districts in related lawsuits with the state covering all expenses, costs, judgments, and settlements