School districts; require drug testing of students suspended for disciplinary infractions.

HB 176 would have required Mississippi public school districts to implement drug testing for students in grades 6-12 who receive in-school or out-of-school suspensions for disciplinary reasons. The bill mandated that schools adopt policies requiring parents to pay for the tests (administered by county health departments within 72 hours), with positive results triggering mental health referrals while maintaining confidentiality. It included provisions for students to present evidence of prescription medication as a defense and required school districts to provide counseling resources. However, the bill died in committee on February 3, 2026, and never became law.