The Mississippi Legislature has officially adjourned its 2026 regular session, having approved a $7.36 billion budget. Despite Republican majorities in both chambers, lawmakers failed to reach consensus on many policy priorities, according to House Speaker Jason White and Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann.
Lawmakers have adjourned at least “on paper” until April 15, but both leaders indicated they might return within the next two weeks to address vetoes from Gov. Tate Reeves or other pending issues. White and Hosemann said a return could also be for potential overrides or to consider unfinished business.
Throughout the session, legislators filed thousands of bills covering education, healthcare, voting rights, and criminal justice. Most bills died in committee, with education remaining the most prominent issue. House leadership prioritized school choice, but the effort was largely blocked by the Senate, which opposed many of the proposals.
The session’s signature education debate centered on school choice policies, with White advocating for increased funding for private schools and broader educational reforms. However, the Senate opposed the omnibus bill, killing it in committee after a brief meeting. The only related measure to reach the governor’s desk was a tax credit increase for private school donors.
Lawmakers did agree on a teacher pay raise, settling on a $2,000 increase for most educators, after negotiations that saw initial proposals ranging from $2,000 to $6,000. Budget concerns also dominated discussions around Medicaid, with the legislature approving $1.17 billion for the program amid a significant funding shortfall. The increase was driven partly by the depletion of federal pandemic relief funds.
Efforts to reform prison healthcare failed, as bills passed the House unanimously but were blocked in the Senate. Additionally, proposals to legalize mobile sports betting and overhaul the state’s pension system did not advance, highlighting ongoing financial and policy challenges. The legislature also approved increased Mississippi enforcement measures related to immigration.
Legislative leaders indicated some issues, including pharmacy benefit manager regulation, could prompt special sessions if agreements are reached. Overall, the session was marked by significant expenditures and policy battles that left many priorities unresolved as lawmakers prepare for next year’s session.
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
