Sen. Angela Turner-Ford

Maddy summarySB 2356 adds 16 specific fentanyl variants and related substances to Mississippi's Schedule I list of controlled substances. These include compounds like alpha-methylfentanyl, beta-hydroxyfentanyl, and several fentanyl analogs, all classified as having no legitimate medical use and high potential for harm. The bill directly affects anyone possessing, distributing, or manufacturing these listed substances within Mississippi, as they become subject to the strictest criminal penalties under state law. The key mechanism is the explicit addition of these 16 substances to Schedule I, aligning Mississippi's law with federal standards for these high-risk drugs.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) passed by the Mississippi Senate. It extends sympathy to the family of Representative Andy Stepp, a first-year state representative from Bruce, Mississippi, who died in December 2024. The resolution commemorates his service as a pharmacist, community leader, and legislator representing District 23, and acknowledges his work on committees like public health and Medicaid. It has no policy impact and was formally adopted by both legislative chambers on March 5-6, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution honors James Earl Jones, the Mississippi-born actor (born in Arkabutla, Mississippi), celebrating his career and expressing the legislature's sympathy for his passing. It commemorates his legacy as a groundbreaking Black actor known for iconic roles like Darth Vader and Mufasa, recognizing his influence on American culture and entertainment. The resolution directs the legislature to present its sentiments to Jones' family and major entertainment organizations, such as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and SAG-AFTRA. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SC 524), not a policy bill. It expresses the Mississippi Legislature's sympathy to Jimmy Carter's family and commends his life, public service, and legacy following his passing. The resolution details his presidency (1977-1981), key achievements like the Camp David Accords, and post-presidency work through the Carter Center. It does not create new laws or affect any individuals or policies - it is solely a symbolic gesture of remembrance. The resolution was adopted by the Mississippi Legislature on March 5, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 2874 requires healthcare providers to screen birth mothers for depression within six weeks of childbirth and mandates that health insurance companies cover this screening with no deductibles or copays. The bill prohibits insurers from requiring "step therapy" (multiple treatment steps before approving FDA-approved depression medications) for postpartum depression treatment and directs the state health department to create educational materials about maternal mental health for providers and new parents. It directly affects birth mothers, healthcare facilities, and insurance companies by establishing new screening requirements and coverage standards. The bill also specifies that hospitals must provide mental health resources to new parents and those showing signs of maternal mental health disorders. (Note: The bill died in committee on March 4, 2025, per recent actions.)

Maddy summarySB 2355 would add kratom to Schedule III of Mississippi's Controlled Substances Act, classifying it alongside substances like ketamine and certain barbiturates. This would require prescriptions for medical use, restrict distribution to licensed pharmacies, and subject kratom products to federal and state regulatory controls. The bill directly affects anyone using kratom in Mississippi, including consumers, retailers, and healthcare providers. The legislation amended Section 41-29-117 of the Mississippi Code to specifically include "any chemically synthesized compound, mixture, or preparation of kratom" in Schedule III. The bill died in committee on March 4, 2025, and did not become law.

Maddy summarySB 2354 would have created a screening program within Mississippi's Department of Health to approve or deny over-the-counter sales of products containing substances with potential for recreational misuse (like bath salts or kratom). Manufacturers would need state health officer approval before selling such products, with an appeal process available for denials. The bill also established a task force to study alternative funding for prescription drugs and their impact on patient access. However, the bill died in committee on March 4, 2025, and was never enacted.

Maddy summarySR 65 is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Mississippi Senate to honor Hinds County Deputy Sheriff Martin Shields, Jr., who died in the line of duty on February 23, 2025. The resolution extends the Senate's "sincerest sympathy" to his surviving family - including his wife, daughter, and parents - and commends his law enforcement career. It has no policy provisions or financial impact; it is purely symbolic, expressing condolences and acknowledging his service. The Senate formally adopted the resolution on February 27, 2025, and will present it to his family and the Hinds County Sheriff's Office.

Maddy summarySB 3065 appropriates $2,000,000 from Mississippi's State General Fund to the City of West Point for street paving during fiscal year 2026 (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026). The bill directly affects West Point residents by funding repairs to city streets, with the state treasurer disbursing funds upon proper requisitions. Key provisions include a fixed appropriation amount and payment mechanics through the State Fiscal Officer, with no new taxes or policy changes. The bill died in committee on February 26, 2025, and was never enacted.

Maddy summarySB 3001 would remove the 7% sales tax on grocery purchases in Mississippi and adjust how sales tax revenue is distributed to cities and towns. This ensures municipalities continue receiving the same level of funding they would have if groceries remained taxable. The bill amends Mississippi tax code sections to implement this exemption and revenue adjustment. The bill was referred to the Finance Committee but died there on February 26, 2025, and did not become law.