HB 1163: Allow students with dyslexia to receive an ESA

House Bill 1163, sponsored by Rep. Larry Byrd, would allow students with a dyslexia diagnosis to be eligible for the education scholarship account (ESA) program. 

The current ESA program is designed to help students with special needs, but it is limited only to students with an Individualized Education Program. This would allow students with dyslexia, who often do not receive an IEP in relation to their diagnosis, to qualify. 

Under the ESA program, parents can direct their state education tax dollars to the educational setting and services of their choice. The ESAs can be used for tuition, therapy, textbooks, tutoring, transportation, and other qualified expenses.  

Empower Mississippi supports this legislation.

House Bill 1163 died in committee on February 4.