ESA; authorize use of a diagnosis of dyslexia as a qualifier to determine eligibility for receipt of.

HB 1163 amends Mississippi law to expand eligibility for the Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program by authorizing a dyslexia diagnosis as a qualifying criterion, in addition to existing requirements like an active Individualized Education Program (IEP). Specifically, it updates Section 37-181-3(b) to include students with a dyslexia diagnosis (per the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship Program) as eligible for ESA funds. This change directly affects students with dyslexia who may not have an active IEP but receive a clinical diagnosis, allowing them to access ESA-funded educational services. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and does not alter the program’s core mechanisms or funding structure.