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As Proponents Rally, Mississippi School Choice Outlook Murky

A plan that would have allowed broader use of public money to pay private school tuition died last year in the Senate. Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn says he would look for Senate action before the House considers a measure.

A plan that would have allowed broader use of public money to pay private school tuition died last year in the Senate. Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn says he would look for Senate action before the House considers a measure. Photo by Stephen Wilson.

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — It's unclear whether Mississippi lawmakers will seek to expand charter schools or public subsidies for private schools, even as proponents press for action.

Hundreds of students and parents gathered Tuesday outside the state Capitol to support using public money for options beyond traditional public schools.

But a plan that would have allowed broader use of public money to pay private school tuition died last year in the Senate. Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn says he would look for Senate action before the House considers a measure.

Lawmakers could also choose to allot more money for an existing program that pays private school tuition for students with disabilities. Republican Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves is voicing clear support for that goal, while Gunn says he will consider it as lawmakers write budgets.

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