Sen. Joel Carter

Maddy summarySB 2781, the Mississippi Video Service Act, would have created a new regulatory framework for video service providers (like cable companies) in Mississippi. It required providers to obtain a franchise permit from the state or local government, pay a fee based on their gross revenue, and maintain records of that revenue for audits. The bill also established service standards, defined "video service" to exclude streaming and satellite services, and governed how providers use public rights-of-way. However, the bill died in committee on February 3, 2026, and was never enacted.

Maddy summarySB 2853 amends Mississippi tax law to address manufactured and mobile home property tax collection. It states that blocking access to such homes to prevent tax notices or occupancy checks would be strong evidence of tax evasion, allowing county tax collectors to immediately seize the property. The bill also updates rules for classifying these homes as either "personal property" (taxed separately) or "real property" (taxed with land), requiring specific steps like removing wheels and anchoring to qualify for real property status. This directly affects mobile/manufactured home owners who might avoid tax notices and county tax collectors who enforce these rules.

Maddy summarySB 2856 prevents lenders from officially recording (perfected) car loan liens while a vehicle is under a valid statutory possessory lien, such as from a mechanic or repair shop for unpaid work. It requires lenders to either certify no such lien exists or obtain written consent from the lienholder before filing. If a lender violates this rule, their lien becomes unenforceable against the possessory lienholder and ranks below it. This bill directly affects car lenders, repair shops holding liens, and vehicle owners with multiple claims on their vehicles.

Maddy summarySB 2844 redirects 2% of Mississippi's state sales tax revenue collected from activities at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center to a dedicated trust fund for that venue's capital repairs or major improvements. It also redirects 2% of sales tax revenue from the Mississippi State Fairgrounds to a special fund managed by the Department of Agriculture for the fairgrounds' capital repairs or major improvements. The bill ensures these funds can only be used for physical infrastructure upgrades at these specific venues, not for operational costs. This directly affects the Coliseum/Convention Center and State Fairgrounds by creating dedicated funding streams for their facility maintenance.

Maddy summarySC 544 is a concurrent resolution passed by the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives to extend condolences to Paul Gallo's family and honor his 56-year career as a talk radio host in Mississippi. It recognizes Gallo's role as a "Godfather" of Mississippi talk radio, his hosting of "The Gallo Radio Show," and his community impact - including raising nearly $3 million for children's causes through SuperTalk's Radiothon. The resolution emphasizes his dedication to amplifying Mississippi's stories, holding leaders accountable, and connecting with listeners as "family" over decades. As a ceremonial tribute, it has no policy effect or direct impact on legislation or constituents.

Maddy summarySB 3287 is a personal bill restoring voting rights to Corderro Martin of Harrison County, Mississippi, who was convicted of felony shoplifting (2014) and conspiracy to introduce a controlled substance (2016). The bill states Martin completed all sentences, including parole and probation, and has been law-abiding since his release in 2020. It directly affects only Martin, not other individuals or general voting laws, and would have restored his suffrage effective July 1, 2025. The bill died in committee in April 2025 and did not become law.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (SC 539) expresses Mississippi's support for strengthening economic ties with Taiwan. It specifically advocates for establishing a Mississippi Trade and Investment Office in Taiwan to help small and medium businesses engage in trade, while also endorsing Taiwan's international participation and honoring Mississippi's existing sister-state relationship since 1983. The resolution notes Mississippi exported over $200 million in goods to Taiwan in 2024. As a non-binding statement of support, it does not create new laws or obligations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 125) formally recognizes the 50th anniversary of the Mississippi State Fire Academy. It honors the Academy's history since 1974, its role in training firefighters and emergency responders, and its contributions to public safety across Mississippi. The resolution does not create new laws or affect any policies; it is a ceremonial acknowledgment presented to the Academy's leadership.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) honoring former Mississippi House Speaker Pro Tempore Robert George Clark, Jr., who died on March 4, 2025. It extends the Legislature's sympathy to his family and recognizes his historic service as Mississippi's first African American legislator since Reconstruction (1967-2003), his leadership roles, and his advocacy for education and Mississippi's historical preservation. The resolution directs that it be presented to his family and forwarded to the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. No policy changes or funding are involved.

Maddy summarySB 2368 amends Mississippi law to ensure civil penalties for violating natural gas pipeline safety standards cannot exceed the maximum penalties set by federal law (49 USC § 60122 and 49 CFR 190.223). It directly affects pipeline operators regulated by the Mississippi Public Service Commission who violate federally adopted safety standards. The key provision limits state penalties to match federal maximums, preventing Mississippi from imposing stricter fines. This change aligns state enforcement with federal requirements without altering safety standards or creating new obligations. The bill does not affect the safety rules themselves, only the penalty structure for violations.