Maddy summarySB 2046, the "Mississippians' Right to Name, Likeness and Voice Act," grants every individual in Mississippi a legal right to control how their name, likeness, and voice are used, including by digital tools like AI-generated images or voice replicas. It requires written agreements with legal counsel for commercial use of these elements by individuals 18 or older, or court approval for minors, and allows rights to be inherited by family members for up to 10 years after death (with termination if unused for two years). The law explicitly states these rights are transferable and protects free speech in related lawsuits through a First Amendment defense. It directly affects all Mississippi residents and businesses using personal identifiers commercially, especially in digital contexts.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 2479, the "Creating Transparency and Accountability in Dental Services Act," requires dental insurance companies (referred to as "dental carriers") to calculate and report annually how much of their premium revenue is spent directly on patient care versus administrative costs. Dental carriers must file detailed reports by June 30 each year, including data matching federal standards, and make these reports publicly accessible online by December 1. The law applies to all dental health plans sold in Mississippi, excluding Medicaid and state-sponsored programs like the Children's Health Insurance Program. This transparency measure aims to clarify where premium dollars go, allowing consumers and regulators to review carrier spending patterns.
Maddy summarySB 2732 requires Mississippi consumer reporting agencies to place a free security freeze on a child’s credit report upon request from the Bureau of Vital Statistics. The bill directs health care facilities to provide parents with a form (at their discretion) to authorize this freeze within 10 days of a child’s birth. This applies only to children born in Mississippi health care facilities, creating a new procedure to block access to a child’s credit report before identity theft could occur. The law uses existing federal credit freeze rules (15 USC § 1681c-1) and takes effect July 1, 2026.
Maddy summarySB 2484, the BRIDGE Act, creates a framework for developing regional schools in Mississippi focused on two distinct needs: specialized education for students with disabilities (including dyslexia, autism, and IEPs) and career/technical education (CTE) programs. The Mississippi Department of Education must conduct a statewide study by October 2026 to identify partnership opportunities with school districts, universities, and workforce entities, and propose governance, staffing, and funding plans. The bill prioritizes rural and underserved areas (counties without cities over 15,000 people) for pilot programs. It aligns both programs with federal special education laws (IDEA, Section 504) and state CTE standards, aiming to address teacher shortages and expand access to specialized learning and workforce training.
Maddy summarySB 2650 reorganizes existing Mississippi Code sections (19-5-381 through 19-5-415) to form the "Mississippi Emergency Communications Authority Act" for easier reference and future amendment. It defines key terms like "Authority" (the emergency communications unit within the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency), "PSAP" (public safety answering point), and "NG911" (Next Generation 911 system) to clarify the structure of the state's emergency communications infrastructure. This procedural bill does not change current law but prepares the framework for potential updates to emergency call systems and funding mechanisms.
Maddy summarySB 2843 revises definitions for Mississippi's Site Development Grant Fund to clarify what qualifies as "eligible expenditures" (like site clearing, utility upgrades, and infrastructure for industrial properties) and "site development improvements" (including roads, drainage, fiber optics, and utility systems). It directly affects counties, municipalities, and economic development groups (referred to as "eligible entities") seeking grants to improve publicly owned or "optioned" industrial properties (properties under 3-year purchase agreements). The bill establishes a permanent state fund that won’t lapse yearly, requires applicants to provide matching funds, and allows reimbursement for Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) administrative costs up to 3% of grant funds. These changes streamline how local entities access state funds for infrastructure projects aimed at attracting industrial development.
Maddy summarySB 2625 creates a new executive-appointed Chief Information Officer (CIO) position in Mississippi's governor's cabinet. The Governor must appoint the CIO with Senate consent, who will advise on statewide IT and cybersecurity policy, protect state data, and oversee modernization of digital services. The CIO must submit annual reports detailing IT spending, security plans, and agency-level strategies. The position is temporary, taking effect July 1, 2026, and expiring June 30, 2026.
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 summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 42) is a ceremonial tribute expressing the Mississippi Senate's condolences to the family and friends of Mrs. Donna Jill Johnson, Meridian’s first Republican Circuit Clerk elected in Mississippi history. It honors her 32-year service to Lauderdale County and the state, noting her integrity, community involvement, and passing at age 80 on February 5, 2026. The resolution does not create any new laws or policies - it solely offers a formal expression of sympathy and recognition of her public service. It directly affects her surviving family members and colleagues, acknowledging her legacy without any legislative impact.
Maddy summarySB 2636 creates Mississippi's first dedicated Department of Cybersecurity to protect state systems and critical infrastructure. The department will develop statewide cybersecurity strategies, secure state digital networks, coordinate with local agencies, and run public awareness programs. The Governor appoints a Director (with Senate approval), who oversees operations and reports to the Governor and Legislature annually. The bill establishes a dedicated cybersecurity fund for grants and federal resources, effective July 1, 2026, with a sunset repeal date of June 30, 2026.