Bill > SB2179

This bill, known as the Tim Tebow Act, allows homeschooled students to participate in interscholastic extracurricular activities (school-sponsored sports or activities sanctioned by the Mississippi High School Activity Association) in the public school district where they would normally be assigned. To be eligible, homeschooled students must meet specific requirements, including paying participation fees, adhering to the same behavioral and academic standards as public school students, providing appropriate academic documentation (such as standardized test results or a portfolio), registering their intent to participate before the semester begins, and complying with physical examination and other standard requirements. The bill stipulates that transportation to these activities is the responsibility of the student, parent, or guardian, and that the school cannot discriminate against homeschooled students in team selection. Additionally, the bill creates a "Homeschool Extracurricular Activity Fund" that provides school districts with $2,250 per homeschooled student who participated in extracurricular activities in the previous year, though districts are not required to request this funding. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that participation is a privilege, not a right, and does not create a legal cause of action for students. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is named after Tim Tebow, a famous homeschooled athlete who advocated for similar participation rights.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2179.xml