The city of Jackson has filed a motion in federal court to block the newly established Metro Jackson Water Authority, which was created by legislation signed into law by Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, according to city officials.
Jackson argues that the legislation, known as the Metro Jackson Water Authority Act, violates the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause. The city contends that the law oversteps federal authority and improperly limits the court’s oversight of water and sewer systems within Jackson.
In the motion, Jackson officials stated that the Supremacy Clause prohibits states from exercising authority over matters already regulated by the federal government. They called on the court to disregard the legislation and provide guidance on future local ordinances, asserting they are prepared to draft legislation consistent with any court directives.
The law, HB 1677, establishes a nine-member board with appointments divided among state leaders and local officials. Jackson would appoint the most members, but not a majority. The board includes appointees from the mayor of Jackson, Byram, Ridgeland, the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the governor in consultation with Jackson’s mayor.
Jackson officials say they should control the majority of the board, emphasizing that the city owns and operates the water and sewer systems. State Sen. Hillman Frazier, a Democrat, said surrounding cities like Byram and Ridgeland should share in operational costs and debt, given their involvement in the authority.
Jackson Mayor John Horhn, a Democrat, echoed these concerns, stating that the city should govern its assets and bear responsibility for debts. He also named the city’s appointments to the board, including Shirley Tucker, Austin Barbour, and Daniel Walker, with plans to recommend retired Maj. Gen. Leon Collins for a joint appointment by the governor.
As of now, Gov. Reeves and Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann have not announced their appointees, who are due by May 1. Meanwhile, Judge Henry Wingate, overseeing Jackson’s water crisis, has scheduled a status conference for Friday morning to discuss the case.
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
