JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - The legislative session has come to an end. However, legislators must reconvene to finalize the state budget.
The Senate concluded its session indefinitely within fewer than 24 hours after the House had done so as well.
"Despite having the funds available, I've suggested to the Speaker that we initiate our budget discussions and proceed with them just as we have before, commencing next week," stated Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann.
Lieutenant Governor Hosemann highlighted several new developments regarding potential federal reductions which might play a crucial role in finalizing the budget discussions.
I believe ultimately, it might have been wise to implement a cooling-off period," observed Hosemann. "We should take some time to assess what will transpire for us from Washington. As taxpayers, we fund one-third of the budget, whereas Washington provides two-thirds. Therefore, I am uncertain about whether this significant portion—two-thirds—is secure.
The Senate minority leader, Senator Derrick Simmons, states that this is also a worry shared by Democrats within the legislative body.
"I believe we have an obligation to make every effort possible during the standard session. However, considering the current situation in Washington D.C., it might be advantageous for the state if we set the budget around early July," stated Simmons.
This puts the decision in Governor Tate Reeves' hands to convene a special session. He assures that there will be no disruptions to the regular flow of state affairs.
"I want to reassure our taxpayers that there is currently no immediate danger of a government shutdown," stated Reeves.
However, it's worth remembering that he can include additional items beyond just the budget in his call for a special session.
I understand there were many conservative priorities that didn’t make it to my desk," Reeves said. "Therefore, we had ongoing detailed discussions internally about what additional requests might or might not be made to the legislature during a possible special session.
Speaker Jason White outlines the end of the session which did not involve a budget discussion.
The House remains committed to ensuring transparency and orderliness in the budgeting process, allowing each legislator the chance to examine and scrutinize government expenditures," stated White. "While we agree on most aspects of the budget, there are significant disparities regarding certain critical areas, such as establishing a specific funding source for PERS to tackle the shortfall. Our ongoing dialogue with the Senate aims to develop a budget that upholds our pledge to reduced governmental size alongside targeted spending, all while fulfilling essential duties and obligations towards the citizens of Mississippi.
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