Sen. Joel Carter

Maddy summarySB 2308 extends the expiration date of Mississippi's energy efficiency standards for building construction, which were originally set to end on July 1, 2029. These standards require new commercial and public buildings (including offices, schools, retail stores, and hospitals) to meet specific energy-saving design practices based on national guidelines. The bill does not alter the existing requirements but ensures they remain enforceable beyond 2029. This affects building developers, contractors, and local governments responsible for implementing and enforcing the codes.

Maddy summarySB 2787 requires all public and private K-12 schools in Mississippi (excluding homeschools) to conduct annual pressure tests on liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas) piping systems used in school buildings. Schools must follow National Fire Protection Association standards, report test results to their gas distributor and the state education department within 30 days, and address any leaks identified during testing. The law mandates that gas distributors discontinue service if unsafe conditions are found and prohibits them from being liable for failures to disconnect service at non-school facilities. This rule applies to all school buildings where LP gas is used, with testing required before each school year begins.

Maddy summarySB 2018 creates the Mississippi National Guard Tricare Premium Reimbursement Program, which reimburses actively drilling Mississippi National Guard members for their Tricare Reserve Select health insurance premiums. The program applies to members eligible for Tricare Reserve Select coverage who are not covered by another employer, with reimbursements paid at the current "Tricare Reserve Select - Member only" rate. The Adjutant General administers the program, requiring legislative funding each year and annual reports starting in 2026 to assess its impact on medical readiness and participation. This policy directly affects National Guard members by reducing their out-of-pocket healthcare costs, aiming to support retention and readiness.

Maddy summarySB 2312, the Wastewater Treatment System Infrastructure Sustainability Act, requires Mississippi's Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) to create a statewide letter grading system (A-F) for community wastewater systems serving 15+ connections. The grades will be based on compliance with permits and water quality standards, financial health, infrastructure condition, and customer satisfaction. MDEQ must publish annual scores and grades online by 2028, and each wastewater system must notify customers of their grade within 30 days of publication. This law directly affects all municipal wastewater systems in Mississippi, aiming to improve transparency, public health protection, and infrastructure sustainability.

Maddy summarySB 2311, the Community Drinking Water Infrastructure Sustainability Act, creates a standardized letter grading system (A-F) for Mississippi's community public water systems - those serving at least 15 year-round connections. The Mississippi State Board of Health will assign grades annually based on criteria including water quality violation history, financial stability, infrastructure condition, and customer satisfaction. Water systems must notify customers of their grade within 30 days of the Board's public report, which will be published online starting January 1, 2028. This law directly affects over 300 community water systems across Mississippi, aiming to improve transparency and accountability in drinking water safety.

Maddy summarySB 2480 directs the State Fiscal Officer to transfer $265 million from Mississippi's Capital Expense Fund to the Capacity Project Fund upon the bill's effective date. This transfer specifically funds transportation infrastructure projects (known as "capacity projects") included in the Mississippi Department of Transportation's Three-Year Plan, as defined under existing law. The bill amends Section 65-1-141.2 to clarify that unspent funds in the Capacity Project Fund do not lapse into the general state fund, and earnings from the fund remain within it. The bill does not create new policy but reallocates existing state funds for transportation project financing.

Maddy summarySB 3112 creates an income tax credit for Mississippi charter boat operators and commercial fishermen who pay fuel taxes on fuel used on waterways (not roads). The credit equals the amount of fuel taxes paid under specific state fuel tax laws for water-based operations. Unused credit can be carried forward for up to five years, but cannot exceed the taxpayer's annual state income tax liability. To claim the credit, businesses must apply with the Department of Revenue, providing proof of fuel taxes paid and a valid license.

Maddy summarySB 2185 appropriates $10 million from Mississippi's Capital Expense Fund to the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) for costs related to future nuclear development during fiscal year 2027 (July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027). The bill directly affects the MDA, which will use the funds to cover expenses associated with planning or advancing nuclear energy projects. It is a procedural funding measure with no new policy requirements, solely authorizing the state treasurer to disburse the allocated amount upon proper requisition. The appropriation becomes effective July 1, 2026.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 44 is a symbolic resolution expressing Mississippi's support for strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with Taiwan. It does not create new laws or programs but formally encourages the state to support U.S.-Taiwan trade (noting $201.1 billion in 2025 trade), advocate for Taiwan's participation in international organizations like the WHO, and establish a Mississippi Trade and Investment Office in Taiwan. The resolution also supports a U.S.-Taiwan tax agreement and counters efforts by China to limit Taiwan's global engagement. As a non-binding expression of support, it directly affects Mississippi's diplomatic posture but does not impose new obligations or changes to existing policies.

Maddy summarySB 2058 clarifies and expands the authority of county and regional utility authorities in Mississippi's Gulf Coast region to regulate water, wastewater, and stormwater systems. It requires all new systems to obtain county certification before construction or permitting, prohibits competing providers from entering areas served by licensed utilities without consent, and establishes penalties including $500 daily fines for violations. The bill directly affects municipalities, utility companies, and developers by strengthening county oversight and enforcing a "right of first refusal" for existing service areas. Key provisions include mandatory performance standards, certification requirements for systems, and allowing counties to pursue legal action to stop unauthorized service.