MUW pushes women into politics
There are 174 elected members of the Mississippi Legislature. Only 26 of those seats are held by women.
Locally, both the Columbus City Council and Lowndes County Board of Supervisors have no women serving, while Starkville Board of Aldermen and Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors each have one woman seated.
Legislation restoring $800k to Lowndes expected next year
When the Mississippi Legislature convenes in January, Lowndes County officials will ask for the right to assess taxes on businesses operating on Golden Triangle Regional Airport land, a move that will restore $800,000 in revenue for the county and its school district.
City vies for share of online sales tax revenue
If the Mississippi Legislature decides to force out-of-state online retailers to charge sales tax, Columbus wants a portion of that revenue.
Legislation would make Holloway OCSD conservator July 1
House Bill 833, as filed by Rep. Toby Barker, R-Hattiesburg, would place Starkville School District Superintendent Lewis Holloway in charge of Oktibbeha County School District July 1 if approved this term by state lawmakers.
The bill was introduced to the House Education Committee today and now moves to Ways and Means, Rep. Gary Chism, R-Columbus, said.
Slimantics: The circus is in town
The tiny little car pulled up to the steps of the state capitol building in Jackson Tuesday. The car door swung open and 174 legislators piled out to the strains of calliope music.
Yes, the 2014 Mississippi Legislature is officially in session and lawmakers are eager to get down to the serious business of seeing how much nonsense they can inflict on us during the next three months.
Slimantics: Political machinations shame our state
In a previous column, I referred to the Mississippi Legislature as a “festering pile of stupid.” Upon reflection, this was not an accurate portrayal.
As the 2013 legislative session draws toward a merciful end, I am reminded daily that there is a more complete description of our state leaders: “A devious, festering pile of stupid.”
Democrats vent displeasure over GOP tax claims
Democratic bitterness over Republican campaign tactics in last year’s Mississippi legislative elections erupted Wednesday in a debate over an otherwise routine local bill.
State health dept seeks money as reserve runs dry
The Mississippi Health Department told lawmakers Wednesday that it needs more money in the coming budget year or it may have to close clinics and reduce AIDS drug purchases.
State lawmakers working to expand charter schools
JACKSON — With even opponents conceding that a bill expanding charter schools in Mississippi is likely to pass, lawmakers are trying to hash out what a new law should cover.
Mississippi economy ‘feeble’ but slowly recovering
JACKSON — Mississippi’s economy is slowly recovering but remains “feeble,” an expert told lawmakers Thursday.
Charter school advocates look to change Mississippi law
JACKSON — Republican control of Mississippi government could bring a new charter school law, and supporters are working on proposals.
Signs to honor state’s notables
JACKSON — Mississippi highways are peppered with signs honoring sports figures, civil rights figures, military heroes and law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, among others.
More will come this year. The 2011 Legislature authorized 21 signs to be erected along Mississippi roads to honor individuals or groups.