State Senate moves to streamline government, honors local achievers
Note: The following is a recap of action taken in the Mississippi State Senate during the past week.
JACKSON, Miss. — The Mississippi Senate advanced a significant deregulation measure this week, passing Senate Bill 2017 to abolish 22 obsolete and non-functioning state commissions. The bill, which cleared the chamber during the third week of the 2026 Legislative Session, now heads to the House for consideration.
The move toward government efficiency headlined a week otherwise defined by legislative tributes and milestone anniversaries. On Tuesday, Jan. 20, the Senate recognized Women for Progress of Mississippi for 48 years of service. The day also featured musical performances by William Carey University’s “Carey On” and the Columbia High School Choir, continuing Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann’s tradition of showcasing student talent at the Capitol.
Several local sports programs received formal commendations for championship seasons, including:
- Terry High School Boys Track and Field: Class 6A State Champions.
- Brookhaven High School Football: Class 5A State Champions.
- Jackson Academy Football: MAIS 4A State Champions, following a dominant 50-14 victory to secure their 10th title.
In a moment of solemnity, the Senate adopted SR 8 to support the Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson following a recent arson attack. Senators also honored Ann Alexander and the Friends of Mississippi Veterans for their advocacy.
The week concluded with a bicentennial celebration for Mississippi College. Senators Hillman T. Frazier and Dean Kirby presented SR 10 to college leadership, marking 200 years since the institution’s founding in Clinton.
With the Jan. 19 deadline for bill introductions now passed, lawmakers are shifting focus to committee work. Senators face a Feb. 3 deadline to report general bills originating in their chamber.
