Mississippi joins federal tax credit scholarship program to expand school choice

Jackson, Mississippi — Governor Tate Reeves announced Tuesday that Mississippi has opted into the federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which begins in the 2027 tax year. The move is intended to expand school choice opportunities for families across the state.

Reeves said the program aligns with the state’s belief that parents, not government, should decide their children’s educational paths. “The Federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program will help Mississippi continue its strong performance in classrooms and empower parents to make the best decisions for their children,” he said.

The program was established through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025. It offers a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for donors to approved Scholarship Granting Organizations, or SGOs. Taxpayers can contribute up to $1,700 and receive the full amount back via a federal tax credit, effectively allowing donations at no net cost.

Funds raised will support scholarships for K-12 students whose family income is below 300% of the area median income. In the coming months, the Mississippi Office of the Governor will designate eligible SGOs to participate in the program.

Reeves thanked the Trump administration for its continued support of school choice initiatives.

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