Sen. Derrick Simmons

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally honors Carroll E. Rhodes for his lifetime of service to civil rights and constitutional principles in Mississippi. It does not create new laws or change policies but serves as an official legislative commendation recognizing Rhodes' career in legal advocacy and his contributions to voting rights and democratic participation. The resolution expresses the Mississippi Legislature's gratitude and admiration for Rhodes' work and intends to present the document to him as a symbol of respect.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a substantive bill), expressing the Mississippi Legislature's condolences to Reverend Jesse Jackson's family following his death. It honors his legacy as a civil rights leader, including his work with the NAACP, voting rights advocacy, and mentorship of Black elected officials in Mississippi. The resolution contains no policy changes or mechanisms - it solely offers symbolic sympathy through formal language. It was introduced by multiple senators and references statements from figures like President Trump, Rep. Bennie Thompson, and Jackson Mayor John Horhn.

Maddy summarySB 2632 is a procedural bill that reorganizes existing sections of Mississippi's Emergency Management Law (Mississippi Code of 1972) by moving specific code sections (33-15-1 through 33-15-53) to new positions in the code. It does not change the content or policy of these sections, which cover definitions, purposes, and structure of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). The bill’s sole purpose is to facilitate future amendments by updating the code’s numbering. This reorganization affects the legal code itself, not individuals or entities, and requires no action from the public or agencies.

Maddy summarySB 3229 authorizes the State of Mississippi to issue revenue bonds to cover repair costs for electric utilities damaged by the 2026 winter storm. Electric utilities can petition the Public Service Commission for a financing order, which, if approved, allows the state to issue bonds for storm-related repairs. The cost will be recovered through a new "system restoration charge" added to customers' monthly utility bills, adjusted annually to ensure it covers bond payments. The bonds are limited to the exact repair costs specified in the financing order and cannot be used for other purposes.

Maddy summarySB 2898 directs the State Treasurer and State Fiscal Officer to transfer $20 million from Mississippi's Capital Expense Fund to the Disaster Assistance Trust Fund upon the bill's effective date. This technical amendment reallocates existing state funds without creating new programs or changing eligibility for disaster assistance. The transfer affects state budget accounting by moving money between two designated funds (Fund No. 6499C00000 to Fund No. 3372500000) to support disaster response resources. The bill has no direct impact on citizens or businesses but modifies how state funds are allocated. It takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summarySB 2378 increases the fee court reporters can charge for transcripts from $4.00 to $5.00 per page. It requires reporters to format documents using practical font and spacing to minimize printed pages, directly affecting court reporters and parties ordering transcripts (like litigants or attorneys). The fee change takes effect July 1, 2026. This bill modifies existing billing rules without altering transcript content or legal procedures.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate concurrent resolution that formally congratulates Yasmine Ware of Madison, Mississippi, on being selected as a 2025 Harry S. Truman Scholar. The resolution recognizes her academic achievements, leadership roles, and commitment to public service, including her work founding Yasmine's Warehouse and her internships with federal agencies. It also notes that the Truman Scholarship provides up to $30,000 for graduate study and is one of 54 such awards given nationwide each year. The bill directs that the resolution be presented to Ware and her family and made available to the Capitol press corps.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 130 formally commends Javarius Smith, a student-athlete from Madison S. Palmer High School, for winning consecutive 2A state weightlifting championships. The resolution recognizes his specific achievement of securing a 1,400-pound total in the 220-pound weight class at the MHSAA State Powerlifting Meet. It directs that this commendation be presented to Smith, his family, his school administration, and the local school district.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution commends the Northside High School boys basketball team and their coach, Demarcus McKinley, for winning the first Class 2A state basketball championship in Mississippi. The resolution recognizes the team's victory over Pelahatchie High School in the March 2026 state final and highlights their strong defensive performance and team achievements throughout the season. It formally acknowledges the school's community impact and extends congratulations to the players, coaches, parents, and supporters for their success.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $20 million from the Disaster Assistance Trust Fund to Mississippi's Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) for disaster response and recovery costs. It specifically covers expenses related to the severe weather event beginning January 24, 2026, and other state disaster obligations, effective from passage through June 30, 2027. The funds are intended to cover MEMA's costs for managing disaster response and recovery efforts during this period. This is a straightforward funding allocation with no new policy provisions.