Mississippi legislature approves Jackson Water Authority bill, sends to governor

The Mississippi House and Senate approved the Jackson Water Authority Act on Monday, with little support from Democrats. The legislation creates a nine-member board to oversee Jackson’s water and sewer system.

The bill passed the House 78-40 and received approval from the Senate, with 15 senators voting against it. The measure is now on the desk of Governor Tate Reeves, who can sign, veto, or allow it to become law without his signature.

Jackson’s water system has been under federal receivership since November 2022 and is managed by a court-appointed third-party interim manager. The new law increases local control by allowing more appointments to the board by Jackson officials.

Under the bill, Mayor John Horhn will appoint a third of the board. The governor will appoint two members, and a third member will be chosen in consultation with the mayor. The lieutenant governor and mayors of Byram and Ridgeland will each appoint one member. Originally, the bill gave more appointment power to state officials.

The legislation also requires the utility board to conduct an independent rate study every two years. If no rate increase is approved in that period, the law mandates the board to adopt one. Additionally, the board must establish a process for customers to dispute their bills.

Jackson State Senator Hillman Frazier, a Democrat, criticized the bill, saying the city would not have enough appointees on the board. He also noted that the city’s water is safe to drink. Republican State Senator Joel Carter emphasized the importance of providing clean drinking water to all residents, referencing ongoing water issues in Jackson.

Mayor Horhn has not commented publicly since the bill’s passage but expressed hope that the state will support the city’s water needs in earlier statements. He said the city is committed to working toward a final measure that benefits everyone.

Source: Original Article