Pupil transportation; provide discretionary authority to local school boards to provide for those who live within one mile of the school.

HB 1320 allows Mississippi local school boards to provide bus transportation to students living within one mile of their assigned school if documented safety risks exist, such as lack of sidewalks, dangerous road crossings, or high-crime areas. It does not change the standard rule requiring transportation for students living more than one mile away. School boards must determine these safety risks themselves, and no state funds can be used for this transportation. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026, and applies only to students living within one mile who face specific, documented safety hazards.