The American Federation for Children (AFC) has expressed approval of the Mississippi House’s decision to pass the Mississippi Education Freedom Act, also known as House Bill 2. This legislation aims to expand school choice in the state and is now set to be reviewed by the Senate. The bill, introduced by House Speaker Jason White and Representative Jansen Owen, proposes the creation of Magnolia Student Accounts and allocates funding to support school choice initiatives across Mississippi.
If passed, House Bill 2 would initially offer school choice options to 12,500 students, with a focus on assisting low-income and working-class families. The plan includes provisions for further expansion over time. Additionally, it seeks to implement significant reforms in existing school choice programs and K-12 education within the state.
Ryan Cantrell, Chief State Strategy Officer at AFC, praised key figures such as Governor Reeves, Speaker White, Representative Owen, and Chairman Roberson for their roles in advancing the bill through the legislative process. Cantrell said that “HB 2 would empower Mississippi families to select the best educational options for their children,” aligning with what he describes as a major agenda item for President Trump and conservative leaders who prioritize parental demands.
The American Federation for Children is recognized as a leading advocate for school choice in the United States. The organization has successfully influenced educational policy by helping pass over 200 laws across 32 states.
