HB1474

Mississippi HB1474 allows local school boards to permit students to receive religious instruction during the school day.

Mississippi HB1474, the "Released-Time Moral Instruction Act of 2026," authorizes local school boards to allow students to receive religious instruction during the school day. Students who participate in released-time moral instruction are excused from school for one hour, one day each week. The instruction must occur off-site, not on school premises. The bill also outlines procedures for reporting student suspensions, expulsions, and unexcused absences, and mandates that students not be penalized for participating in released-time moral instruction. The act takes effect from July 1, 2026.