At the start of this session, I planned to provide weekly updates to the voters in DeSoto County, so you’d have a better understanding of what’s happening in the legislature.
However, I’ve received some feedback about the need for more explanation of the bills. With thousands of bills being filed, our current focus is on getting them through the committee before their deadline.
Some bills will not make it past the calendar, while others will be brought up for debate on the floor. Once we begin debating those bills, I’ll make sure to keep you updated on the details of the legislation being passed. Thanks for your patience, and I look forward to keeping you informed!
Last week, the fourth week of the 2025 Legislative Session, was packed with significant events in the Mississippi Senate, from key legislative actions to special recognitions and performances. On Wednesday, Jan. 29, we passed House Concurrent Resolution 31, calling for a joint session of the Legislature to hear the Governor’s State of the State address.
That same day, we took a moment to honor Dr. Steven Reed, co-owner of Southern Eye Clinic in Vicksburg, with Senate Resolution 24. Dr. Reed was recognized as the first Mississippian to serve as President of the American Optometric Association—an incredible milestone for both him and our state.
The following day, Thursday, Jan. 30, we celebrated the Heidelberg High School Oilers Football Team and Head Coach Darryl Carter for winning their first-ever MHSAA Class 2A State Championship. Senator Juan Barnett presented Senate Resolution 8 to the team, marking this historic achievement for the Oilers and their community.
Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, Jan. 28, the West Lauderdale High School choir performed in the second-floor rotunda as part of Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann’s tradition of showcasing student talent at the Capitol. It was inspiring to see our young people share their gifts with us.
In between these special moments, senators were hard at work attending numerous committee meetings. With the Feb. 4 deadline quickly approaching for committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments originating in the Senate, we’re all preparing for a busy stretch ahead.
As of Friday, Jan. 31, 1,013 Senate bills and resolutions had been filed, and we’re gearing up for an even more intense week as we push forward with our legislative priorities.
