Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
January 9, 2023 was Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Recent years have seen more and more people attack and demonize the men and women in law enforcement across the country. I’m proud that in Mississippi, we still believe that those in uniform, who risk their lives every day to maintain law and order and keep us safe, are heroes. If you see a law enforcement officer, remember to thank them for their service. As your state senator, I will always Back the Blue.
Legislative Doctor of the Day
I had the privilege last week of meeting with the Legislative Doctor of the Day, Dr. Avni Patel. Dr. Patel is specializing in Psychiatry at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where she is in her third year of school. As Legislative Doctor of the Day, Dr. Patel provided any medical services that arose for legislators and staff. Thank you for your service, Dr. Patel!
Future Farmers of America
I was thrilled to meet with Pine Belt students who participate in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization. FFA, known around the Capitol for its trademark corduroy jackets, is a career and technical student organization that promotes agricultural education. Agriculour state’s number one industry ($9.72 billion) and employs approximately 17.4 percent of the state’s workforce according to the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce. I applaud these students for their involvement with an organization that helps prepare them for a successful future here in the Magnolia State!
Committee Meetings
With the legislative session now in full swing, committee work is beginning in earnest. I am fortunate to represent Senate District 45 on the Senate committees for Constitution (chairman), Finance (vice chairman), Tourism, Public Health & Welfare, Medicaid, Education, Drug Policy, and Business & Financial Institutions. Have a question or concern about these issues? Don’t hesitate to reach me at the contact information listed below.
Drafting Deadline
The Legislature has officially passed its first two legislative deadlines. January 11 was the deadline to request that bills be drafted, and January 16 was the deadline by which all general bills and constitutional amendments must be introduced. Now, Lt. Governor Hosemann will assign all filed bills to their respective committees, where they will begin to move through the process. The next deadline falls on January 31, when all Senate bills not passed out of Senate committees will die on the calendar.
Questions/Feedback?
Life at the Capitol moves quickly, and it can be hard to keep track. Let me know any questions you may have, thoughts on pending legislation, or any unique events happening in Senate District 45. I can always be reached at chjohnson@senate.ms.gov.