Mississippi Senate opens regular session with historic PERS funding, teacher pay raises

JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Senate hit the ground running this week, gaveling in the Regular Legislative Session with a flurry of activity that included swearing-in ceremonies, a massive infusion of capital into the state retirement system, and a suite of education reforms.

The session began Tuesday, Jan. 6, as Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann presided over the swearing-in of five new senators and six returning members. The influx of talent follows recent elections held in redrawn districts across the state.

New and Returning Leadership

The following new members were sworn into the Senate:

• Johnny L. DuPree, District 45
• Don Hartness, District 42
• Theresa Gillespie Isom, District 2
• Kamesha B. Mumford, District 26
• Justin L. Pope, District 24

Additionally, sitting senators Juan Barnett, Kevin Blackwell, Joey Fillingane, Reginald Jackson, Chris Johnson, and Michael McLendon took their oaths of office to begin new terms.

Shoring Up State Retirement

On Wednesday, Jan. 7, the Senate took decisive action to protect the financial future of state employees. With the passage of Senate Bill 2004, also known as the Mississippi PERS Stability Act, lawmakers committed a historic $500 million stabilizing infusion to the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS).

The legislation further guarantees the system’s longevity by dedicating an annual $50 million appropriation through 2036.

Education Reform and Teacher Support

The Senate also advanced a trio of bills aimed at strengthening Mississippi’s education landscape:

• Teacher Pay Raises: Senate Bill 2001 provides a minimum $2,000 pay raise for K–12 teachers, assistant teachers, community college instructors, and university professors statewide.
• Student Portability: Senate Bill 2002 removes the “veto power” of sending school districts. This allows students accepted into a new district to transfer more easily, though receiving districts maintain control over admissions.
• Addressing Teacher Shortages: Senate Bill 2003 incentivizes retired educators to return to the classroom. The bill increases retired teachers’ take-home pay from 50% to 65%, slashes the post-retirement “sit-out” period from 90 to 45 days, and expands eligibility to all districts statewide.

Looking Ahead

Rounding out the week on Thursday, Jan. 8, the Senate confirmed four appointments to the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering.

Legislators are now working against a tight clock. The deadline for requesting general bills and constitutional amendments is Jan. 14, with the final introduction deadline set for Monday, Jan. 19.