Face masks; prohibit public schools and universities and colleges from requiring students to wear.

HB 1175 prohibits public schools, community colleges, and universities in Mississippi from requiring students to wear face masks, face shields, or other coverings over the mouth/nose. It allows parents to decide if their child wears a mask and lets students choose for themselves, though schools may still require safety gear for specific courses like lab work. The bill would have taken effect July 1, 2026, but died in committee on February 3, 2026, and is not law. It directly affects all public K-12 students and college students in Mississippi, shifting mask requirements from school mandates to individual choice.