Mississippi lawmakers struggle to finalize budget, pass education and election bills

Mississippi legislators continued negotiations Wednesday night over a spending bill known as the ‘Christmas tree’ bill, intended to fund dozens of local projects across the state. Senate Finance Chairman Josh Harkins told Mississippi Today that lawmakers aimed to settle on a list of projects by the night. The bill typically allocates between $200 million and $400 million for local projects, such as park renovations and road repairs, often used as political leverage.

Earlier this week, lawmakers approved a budget for the Department of Finance and Administration, which disburses project funds. The approved budget allows up to $253 million for projects, but the final Christmas tree bill may allocate less. Lawmakers have used these bills to reward or penalize members based on project approval, but last year, political disagreements prevented any projects from passing.

Governor Tate Reeves signed into law the SHIELD Act, which requires local election officials to verify voters’ citizenship using a federal database. Supporters say the law will increase election integrity, while critics argue it could suppress voter turnout. The legislation drew opposition from Democrats, who said it might complicate voting and create barriers for U.S. citizens, despite no evidence of widespread noncitizen voting in Mississippi or nationwide.

A bill taxing wire transfers from Mississippi to other countries appears to be dead after concerns about its constitutionality and impact on financial institutions. The ‘Money Transfer Modernization Act’ proposed a $7.50 fee for transfers up to $500 and 1.5% for larger amounts. Proponents argued it would recover funds from undocumented workers, but lawmakers questioned its legality and practicality. The Senate voted to recommit the bill for further discussion, effectively ending its chances this session.

Lawmakers approved a smaller teacher pay raise than initially proposed, ending months of debate. The House wanted a $5,000 increase, while the Senate initially offered $2,000, eventually settling on a $6,000 raise over three years. The final decision was a $2,000 increase, disappointing educators. House Education Chairman Rob Roberson defended the move, citing budget constraints and promising future efforts. The legislature also approved education initiatives, including literacy and math programs, and a financial literacy course, with funding allocated in the department’s budget.

Finally, Senate Bill 2728, which sought comprehensive reforms to Mississippi’s youth court system, failed before the session’s deadline. The bill aimed to standardize juvenile courts handling child abuse and delinquency cases, proposing to eliminate the referee system and increase transparency. Despite support from some lawmakers, the House adjourned without taking it up, leaving systemic issues in the juvenile justice system unaddressed for now.

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