We are only a few short weeks away from being back in the Capitol for the 2022 Legislative Session. What are some things you’re hoping to see come out of the Legislature this year? I’d love to hear from you!
Out and About
This past month, I spoke at the Cooperative University by Pearl River Valley Electric Power, which is an initiative aimed at high school juniors within the PRVEP service area. Additionally, I went on an economic development tour in Vicksburg, visiting a short-line railroad and lumber yard. I was also fortunate to be invited to speak at the Petal Rotary Club, and I greatly appreciate their service to the local community.
NCSL Fiscal Policy Summit
Last month, I attended a fiscal policy summit put on by the National Conference of State Legislatures. I got to speak with a host of leaders from across the country on topics ranging from taxes to workforce to infrastructure. It was an incredible experience, and I’m grateful to NCSL for having me. My goal as your State Senator is to support sound, responsible fiscal policy that will grow Mississippi’s economy and protect your hard-earned dollars. I’m excited to continue to do just that in the upcoming Legislative session.
ABC
One of the big debates going on among state leaders right now is over Mississippi’s Alcohol Beverage Control, or ABC. With a growing statewide demand for alcohol, ABC has struggled to keep up. As a result, many are calling for the state to get out of the alcohol business altogether and allow private businesses to come in and take over operations. Proponents of this approach believe this will increase the selection available to Mississippians, cut down on shipping times, and allow the private sector to adjust more quickly to demand than a state agency ever could. Those opposed to the idea point to the large amount of tax revenue the state would lose if it were to privatize its wine and spirits wholesaling operations. I am in favor of a more mixed approach, where the state would own the warehouse, and would still control the inflow and sales of alcohol, except for the warehouse operations and delivery would be provided by a private company.
Census & Redistricting
Following the 2020 census, Mississippi’s Legislature is beginning to work on redistricting. Every ten years, using updated population data, the House and Senate work together to redraw lines for Mississippi’s legislative districts. According to Census data, Mississippi was one of three states to lose population over the past ten years. As we work to redraw district lines, we’ll also be working to craft policies that aim to attract more people to our state and retain those here. Mississippi is an amazing place to live and raise a family, and it’s time we start to tell that story.
Thank You, Veterans!
Earlier this month, we as a nation celebrated Veterans’ Day, a time of appreciation for those who have served in our Armed Forces to keep us safe. Without the brave men and women of our military, America could not be the beacon of freedom that it is. Our troops put their lives on the line every day to protect America and preserve the values that make our nation the greatest in the history of the world. To all those who are serving or have served, thank you!
Let Me Hear from You
Do you have thoughts about Mississippi’s fiscal policy? Do you believe we should privatize ABC, keep the state in control of it, or use a mixed approach? What do you think the state should to grow our population and bring more people into the state? Let me know! I’d welcome your thoughts on these topics, or anything else you’re interested in. Shoot me an email at chjohnson@senate.ms.gov.
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