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HB 1162

MS Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia; revise eligibility beginning with kindergarten.

2025 Regular Session

Mississippi dyslexia therapy scholarship for kindergarten students aims to fund specialized literacy interventions but died in committee without advancing.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1162

Legislative bill overview

HB 1162 would establish a scholarship program in Mississippi to fund dyslexia therapy for students beginning in kindergarten. The bill aims to provide financial support for evidence-based dyslexia interventions, making specialized treatment more accessible to eligible students with diagnosed dyslexia across the state.

Why is this important

Dyslexia affects approximately 5-15% of the population and early intervention significantly improves literacy outcomes. Without dedicated funding mechanisms, many families struggle to afford specialized therapies, creating disparities in educational access based on socioeconomic status. This scholarship approach could remove financial barriers to treatment during critical early literacy development years.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding source: The bill's cost depends on participation rates and per-student scholarship amounts, which may strain education budgets during competing budget priorities
  • Defining eligibility and diagnosis: Establishing consistent dyslexia screening and diagnosis criteria across districts requires coordination and raises questions about who qualifies and whether universal screening is required
  • Public vs. private therapy: The bill's scope regarding whether scholarships cover private therapy providers, school-based interventions, or both could create implementation and equity questions
  • Sustainability: Whether funding is a one-time appropriation or ongoing budget allocation affects the program's long-term viability

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

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