MississippiSB 23682026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

Higher Education Legislative Plan Grant Program; amend.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

State tuition grant for Mississippi students

The law creates a state grant that can pay your tuition at Mississippi public colleges and approved in‑state nonprofit schools. To qualify, you must be a Mississippi resident, finish high school within two years, have at least a 2.5 GPA, complete the College Preparatory Curriculum, score 20 or higher on the ACT (or an equivalent score), have no criminal record other than traffic misdemeanors, and show financial need. For need, family AGI must be $42,500 or less for one child under 21, plus $5,000 for each extra child; FAFSA checks this. If you miss one academic rule by 10% or less, you can still qualify. To keep the grant, you must study full time, stay enrolled at least two terms each year unless excused, keep a 2.5 GPA after year one, remain in need, and keep a clean record. Awards depend on available state funds.

Tuition help for fallen responders' families

The law pays up to eight semesters of tuition at any Mississippi public college for spouses and children of law enforcement officers or full-time firefighters who are killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. It now also covers agents of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and correctional, probation, and parole officers at the Department of Corrections. Students must make steady progress and keep a 2.5 GPA to renew. It does not cover books or living costs. Children age out at 23, but can finish if they started before turning 23.

Pell-first and tuition caps on grants

Before you get state funds, you must apply for or be deemed eligible for a federal Pell Grant. The state grant never pays more than your school's tuition. If you attend a private two-year or four-year school in Mississippi, the state pays no more than the average cost at comparable public schools. This can leave a gap you must cover.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Nicole Boyd
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Gary Brumfield
Democratic • Senate
Albert Butler
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 224 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/10/2026

Concurred in Amend From House

Yes: 52 • No: 0

House vote • 3/4/2026

Passed As Amended

Yes: 120 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/11/2026