Closing arguments concluded Wednesday in a federal trial over Mississippi legislation that seeks to dissolve the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority and replace it with a regional board. The case, which has lasted more than a decade, originated in 2016 when the Legislature passed a law signed by then-Gov. Phil Bryant.
U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves said he will review post-trial submissions from both sides over the next 60 days before issuing a ruling. The city of Jackson and the current airport authority argued the legislation was racially discriminatory and violated both the U.S. and Mississippi constitutions. They contend the law unfairly targets Jackson, which is majority Black.
LaToya Merritt, an attorney representing the Jackson airport authority, described the bill as an “unconstitutional effort” to take control of the airport. The state, meanwhile, says the law promotes economic development and helps the airport adapt to new business challenges. Senate Bill 2162, authored by Republican Sen. Josh Harkins, would dissolve the current five-member board appointed by Jackson and establish a nine-member regional board.
The new board would be largely appointed by state and county entities, including the Mississippi National Guard, the Mississippi Development Authority, the lieutenant governor, Madison County, and Rankin County. The city of Jackson and the governor would each appoint two members, with the governor’s and lieutenant governor’s appointees required to be from Jackson.
Jackson City Attorney Drew Martin argued the law is part of a broader pattern of the state diminishing the power and property of the majority-Black city. He cited testimony from Mayor John Horhn, Rep. Robert Johnson, and Jackson State University political science professor Byron Orey, all of whom described the legislation as racially motivated. Martin warned that removing appointment power from Jackson, which is 80% Black, would dilute residents’ voices.
Assistant Attorney General Justin Matheny stated the law was enacted for “legitimate, non-racial” reasons and followed proper legislative procedures. He noted lawmakers argued at the time that rising fares and economic development needs justified the change. Matheny also explained that the Jackson airport’s unique size and importance justified the law, which does not apply to other airports like Gulfport-Biloxi or the Golden Triangle.
The airport land is owned by Jackson but located in Rankin County. Last year, Jackson reached an agreement with Flowood and Pearl to annex surrounding land, aiming to attract economic growth. Judge Reeves thanked both sides for their spirited debate and acknowledged that the case has seen multiple appeals, suggesting his decision will likely be reviewed.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
