Legislative weekly summary
Senate Advances FY 2027 Budget, Key Bills
The Mississippi Senate moved forward with major budget and policy actions during the seventh week of the 2026 Legislative Session, adopting appropriations bills that outline a proposed $7.89 billion state‑support budget for fiscal year 2027. The plan includes $18 million for the Military Department, with $3.3 million designated for Senate Bill 2018, which would provide free Tricare health insurance coverage for eligible Mississippi National Guard members, according to the report.
Other proposed allocations include $20.9 million for the Department of Workforce Development, $24.8 million for the Veterans Affairs Board—featuring $18.9 million to relocate the Jackson Nursing Home to Rankin County—and $9.9 million for the Department of Agriculture and Commerce. The House will next review the measures.
Lawmakers also advanced House Bill 515, which sets communication limits for radiologist assistants, stating they “may only communicate their initial observations to the radiologist.” House Bill 814 would allow the Mississippi Department of Health to raise several permit and program fees over the next three fiscal years.
The week also featured the Alcorn State University Choir’s performance at the Capitol and the presentation of Senate Resolution 48 honoring the university’s 155th anniversary. Upcoming deadlines include February 23–27 for appropriation and revenue bill actions.
House Advances Budget, Education Measures
The Mississippi House of Representatives wrapped up the seventh week of the 2026 Regular Session by meeting a key deadline on February 16, the final day to dispose of motions to reconsider general bills and constitutional amendments originating in the chamber.
Budget work dominated the week as lawmakers passed 53 appropriation bills funding major state agencies for the upcoming fiscal year. The measures cover the Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, Transportation, Environmental Quality, Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, and the Division of Medicaid, along with judicial offices and regulatory boards. Their passage marks continued progress toward shaping the state’s overall spending plan.
Members also approved Senate Bill 2294, known as the Mississippi Future Innovators Act. The legislation requires high schools to offer computer science courses or career and technical education programs that include embedded computer science instruction, aiming to expand student access to technology‑focused learning.
The House adopted several resolutions recognizing outstanding individuals, student achievements, and championship athletic teams. Another resolution encouraged continued economic ties and friendship with the Republic of China (Taiwan).
The House also welcomed a wide range of visiting students, educators, civic groups, and community organizations throughout the week.
