Maddy summaryHB 984 modifies Mississippi's zoning change process by requiring local governments to provide public hearing notices for zoning adjustments through social media platforms (in addition to traditional methods) and extending the appeal deadline for affected residents. Specifically, it adds social media as an acceptable notice method for public hearings on zoning changes, while changing the appeal filing window from 10 to 20 days after a zoning decision by local authorities. This bill directly affects residents, property owners, and local governments in municipalities and counties considering zoning amendments. The changes aim to improve public access to notice and provide more time for individuals to challenge zoning decisions through the courts.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 892 requires Mississippi voter registrars to check all new voter registration applicants against the federal SAVE system (which verifies U.S. citizenship) before processing applications. This directly affects applicants whose citizenship is questioned by the system, potentially placing them in "pending" status until they provide proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate or passport). Registrars must annually report to the Secretary of State how many applicants were flagged by SAVE and how many were removed after verification. The bill also mandates the Secretary of State to conduct two annual checks of voter records against SAVE and exempt SAVE-related data from public disclosure under Mississippi's public records law.
Maddy summaryHB 894 removes THC potency limits for cannabis concentrates, tinctures, and oils in Mississippi. This bill directly affects medical cannabis businesses that produce or sell these products, allowing them to manufacture concentrates with higher THC levels without restriction. The key provision amends Section 41-137-39 to eliminate existing strength limits, changing how concentrates are regulated under the state’s medical cannabis program. It does not alter licensing requirements, background checks, or other operational rules covered in the bill’s existing sections. The change specifically applies to concentrate products, not flower or other cannabis forms.
Maddy summaryHB 986 renames Mississippi's existing "Insurance Department Fund" as the "Insurance Department Fraud Detection Trust Fund" and redesignates it as a dedicated special fund in the state treasury. The bill requires property/casualty insurers and life/health insurers/HMOs to pay annual assessments based on their Mississippi premiums (with a $100 minimum per company) into this fund, capping total annual contributions at $1 million. Funds must be used exclusively for fraud detection tools (including AI, cybersecurity, and arson investigations), and unspent balances or interest cannot revert to the general fund. This directly affects all insurance companies operating in Mississippi that sell property/casualty, life, health, or accident policies.
Maddy summaryHB 985 authorizes Mississippi's Commissioner of Insurance to apply for a State Innovation Waiver under the Affordable Care Act (Section 1332). This bill directly affects the Commissioner’s authority by explicitly adding this option to existing powers related to health insurance exchanges. The key provision amends state law to permit the Commissioner to seek federal waivers that could allow Mississippi to modify certain Affordable Care Act requirements for its health insurance market. The change does not create new programs but clarifies the Commissioner’s ability to pursue waiver opportunities under federal law. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.
Maddy summaryHB 983 prohibits judges from granting unsecured judicial release (such as release on own recognizance or without requiring money/property security) to individuals charged with offenses punishable by more than one year in prison. It defines "bail restricted offense" as any crime with a potential sentence exceeding one year and requires that such defendants be released only through secured bonds (monetary, property, or surety). The bill does not affect release options for less serious offenses (under one year), preserving judicial discretion for those cases. This change aligns with amendments to Mississippi’s bail laws, effective July 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 988, the "Strengthen Mississippi Homes Act," creates a state program to help Mississippi homeowners retrofit properties against hurricane, tornado, and windstorm damage. It directly affects residential and commercial property owners seeking to reduce vulnerability through physical improvements, with grants capped at $15,000 per home. Key provisions include renaming the existing hurricane damage program, removing prior requirements like cost-benefit studies, establishing a dedicated program fund, and mandating insurance companies to notify clients about the program within 30 days of filing insurance discounts. The bill also requires the Department of Insurance to submit annual reports tracking grants awarded, homes retrofitted, and estimated premium discounts.
Maddy summaryHB 987 requires businesses offering automatic renewals or continuous services (like streaming subscriptions or software) to clearly explain terms before charging customers and obtain their explicit agreement. It mandates that businesses present renewal terms prominently, get "affirmative consent" (such as a clear click or signature) before charging, and provide easy online cancellation options. The bill also requires businesses to notify customers of material changes to terms and refund charges if consent wasn't properly obtained. It excludes banks, credit unions, utilities, and other regulated entities from these requirements. The law would take effect July 1, 2026, but died in committee in February 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 1139 would exempt constables (local law enforcement officers) from Mississippi's standard concealed firearms licensing requirements. Currently, the state requires a license for concealed carry, involving background checks, age verification, and other criteria detailed in law. This bill would remove those specific requirements for constables, allowing them to carry firearms without a license in their official duties. The exemption directly affects constables, who are already law enforcement officers, without changing licensing rules for the general public.
Maddy summaryHB 1138 establishes standardized requirements for cosmetology, barbering, nail technology, and esthetics apprenticeship programs in Mississippi. It mandates that apprentices (minimally 16 years old with proof of education) apply through a board-approved process, wear a badge during training, and complete minimum timeframes (e.g., 75 weeks for cosmetology). Sponsors (licensed professionals with 10+ years experience) must train only one apprentice at a time, provide all materials, avoid charging for training, and maintain detailed attendance and progress records. The bill prohibits accelerated programs and requires sponsors to submit completion certifications within 30 days, with the state board conducting audits of all program records.