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Bill

HB 729

Homeschool students; authorize to participate in public school extracurricular activities.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elliot Burch and 1 co-sponsor

Authorizes homeschooled students to join public school extracurricular activities, but the bill died in committee without advancing for a vote.

Died In Committee
#education
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Bill Summary · HB 729

Legislative bill overview

HB 729 would allow homeschooled students in Mississippi to participate in extracurricular activities offered by public schools, including sports, clubs, and other after-school programs. The bill was referred to the Education Committee in January 2025 but died in committee by February 2025, meaning it did not advance for further consideration.

Why is this important

Homeschooled students currently have limited access to the social, athletic, and developmental benefits that public school extracurriculars provide, potentially creating equity gaps between homeschooled and traditionally-schooled students. This policy could affect thousands of Mississippi families and would determine resource allocation, liability, and eligibility standards for public school programs funded by taxpayers.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and resource strain: Public schools receive per-pupil funding based on enrollment; allowing non-enrolled homeschoolers to use facilities and programs could strain budgets without corresponding revenue
  • Eligibility and fairness concerns: Questions about academic standards, grade verification, and whether homeschooled students should meet the same eligibility requirements (GPA, conduct) as enrolled students
  • Liability and oversight: Uncertainty about who is responsible if a homeschooled student is injured during school activities, and how schools would enforce behavioral standards and rules for non-enrolled participants

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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