Bill > HB1212

This bill clarifies how funding is allocated to university-based programs (UBPs) that provide education for children with significant developmental disabilities or complex communication needs who cannot be adequately served by their local public school districts. Specifically, it amends existing law to ensure that these UBPs receive funding equivalent to the full base student cost and all qualifying weighted adjustments, as outlined in Section 37-151-205 of Mississippi Code, rather than a fixed teacher unit allocation. The bill also clarifies that state and federal funds for these programs, including those under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), will be distributed directly to the state-supported universities or colleges operating the UBPs, and that these institutions will be responsible for any additional program costs. Furthermore, it specifies that state funds for transportation, extended school year programs, and the total funding formula, including specialized supplements, will also be distributed directly to the UBPs. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that ensures students with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that is tailored to their individual needs. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan developed for each child with a disability that describes their specific educational needs and the services they will receive.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB1212.xml