Week of April 15, 2024

By Representative Clay Mansell

This was the sixteenth week of the 2024 legislative session. At this point in the session, bills have either been sent to the governor to be signed or are being discussed in conference.

Conference on a bill occurs when further discussion is needed to reach the best solution. A conference consists of three representatives and three senators who work together to finalize a bill. More than 250 bills are currently in conference, including those that deal with the state budget. Once a bill is out of conference, it must go to both the House and the Senate for a vote before being sent to the governor.

Along with holding conferences all week, the House did meet to discuss local and private bills, to invite conference on some remaining bills and to honor special guests.

On Friday, the House honored Mr. William Jarrell, a 100-year-old World War II Navy veteran and a resident of Escatawpa. He was presented with House Resolution 48 commending him on his service and celebrating his 100th birthday.

The House also honored Jackson State Women’s Basketball Head Coach Tomekia Reed and player Angel Jackson for their many accomplishments this season. Coach Reed was presented with House Resolution 113 for being named SWAC Coach of the Year, while Jackson was presented with House Resolution 111 for being named SWAC Women’s Defensive Player of the Year and being drafted to the WNBA.

Other visitors this week included Copiah-Lincoln Community College, Moss Point High School, Charleston High School, Florence High School, West Jones High School, Winona High School, Sumrall High School, Hartfield Academy, Clergy for Medicaid Expansion and the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources.