New poll shows Trump & Hyde-Smith leading in re-election bids
A new poll conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy shows President Donald Trump and Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith holding comfortable leads heading into November. The poll, which surveyed 625 Mississippi voters across the state’s five regions, examined a potential Presidential race between President Trump and former VP Joe Biden or Senator Bernie Sanders and the Senate race between incumbent Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith and Democratic challenger Mike Espy. Against Biden, the poll shows that President Trump holds a 56%-41% lead in the race with 3% of voters undecided. Courtesy of Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy Trump’s lead increases to 59%-36% when facing off with Sanders. The remaining 5% of voters were undecided. Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy As for the Senate race, Espy, a former Congressman, faces several primary opponents on March 10th. If he becomes the Democratic nominee for the seat, it will set up a rematch with Hyde-Smith, who won the race between the two in November 2018 following the retirement of the late-Senator Thad Cochran. The new poll projects that the incumbent Senator holds a 53%-43% lead over Espy with the remaining 4% undecided. According to Mason-Dixon, the margin for error in the poll is ± 4 percentage points. The poll was conducted from February 26-28th and registered voters were interviewed by phone. The post New poll shows Trump & Hyde-Smith leading in re-election bids appeared first on News Mississippi.
Dead or Alive? See some bills that made it out of committee deadline
Yesterday, March 3rd, was the committee deadline day. Meaning this is the day that bills that have been introduced to both the House and the Senate and then assigned to their respected committees had to be discussed or brought to attention or were labeled as “dead.” In total, since the beginning of the session 2,497 bills were introduced on both the House and the Senate side of the Capitol. To get more specific, there were 1,590 on the House filed and 907 filled on the side of the Senate. Now, after Tuesday, 465 of the House bills are still alive – which is 29.5% of the total number and 327 of the Senate bills are considered alive, being 39% of the total number of bills originally filed. Some more interesting stats: House: 331 Republican bills – 71% of all alive House bills 113 Democratic bills – 24% of all alive House bills 21 Independent bills – 5% of all alive House bills Senate 241 Republican bills – 74% of all alive Senate bills 86 Democratic bills – 26% of all alive Senate bills Some other bills that made it out alive that are interesting: HB 551: An act to create the “Mississippi Seafood Marketing Law of 2020” HB 450: To authorize the department of wildlife, fisheries, and parks to require annual chronic wasting disease testing of white-tailed deer harvested within any enclosure. HB 1480: Act to provide that if a community or junior college visually or audibly publically advertise that the community or junior college can provide a career and technical education course, that community or junior college must include funding information. SB 1202: The exempt from ad valorem taxation all motor vehicles while in the hands of a wrecker service or automobile repair service/business that are being held for sale as merchandise and which are not being operated upon the highways of this state. SB 2204: To authorize off-duty use of municipal and county police vehicles by certain law enforcement officer engaging in private employment SB 2717: To allow the operation of electric bikes by people at least 60 years olf in wildlife management areas under the jurisdiction of the department of wildlife, fisheries, and parks. SB 2557: TO create the advocate confidentiality law SB 2049: To revise certain definitions under the baby drop-off law. The post Dead or Alive? See some bills that made it out of committee deadline appeared first on News Mississippi.
Governor announces coronavirus task force, new DHS director
During a press conference, Governor Tate Reeves made several important announcements. As Mississippi officials continue to monitor the coronavirus outbreak across the country, Governor Reeves announced the formation of the ‘Mississippi Coronavirus Preparedness & Response Planning Steering Committee’. The committee will be led by State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs and representatives from many state agencies will round out the membership. Dr. Dobbs stated that there have been several individuals tested for the virus in Mississippi but all of them tested negative. Governor Reeves stated that the formation of the task force is a part of their plan to act now in order to plan for any scenario. “There is no higher priority than ensuring the health and safety of all who call Mississippi home. And we are taking this coronavirus threat seriously. We are taking action now—ahead of any confirmed cases—to make sure that we are ready for any scenario. Bringing together our state’s leaders and experts puts Mississippi in the best possible position to prepare and improve our response plan and activities,” said Governor Reeves. Next, the Governor announced that Bob Anderson has been named the new Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Human Services. Anderson is a former federal prosecutor that has worked alongside former Attorney General Jim Hood and current Attorney General Lynn Fitch. Reeves said that there is “no one more capable to root out any remnants of the misdeeds of the past and ensure that corruption never infects this department again”. His appointment comes after former DHS Executive Director John Davis and 5 others were arrested in what State Auditor Shad White called the largest embezzlement scheme in Mississippi history. The final announcement made by Governor Reeves was the formation of the ‘Mississippi Cybersecurity Task Force’, which will be led by Attorney General Fitch. The task force will work to identify all of the state’s vulnerabilities and reset the cybersecurity standards and procedures. “States, the federal government, and businesses are all facing daily cybersecurity threats. Mississippi is no different. We are taking action now. And I am grateful that our Attorney General will be at the tip of the spear,” Reeves said. At the press conference, the Governor also stated that the search continues for several state agency heads, including the Department of Corrections. Watch the full press conference below: The post Governor announces coronavirus task force, new DHS director appeared first on News Mississippi.
Biden, Sanders set to visit Mississippi ahead of March 10th primary
Update: Joe Biden won’t be the only Democratic Presidential candidate to visit Mississippi ahead of next Tuesday’s primary vote as Bernie Sanders will be in Jackson on Friday. Sanders will hold an event at the Two Mississippi Museums on Friday at 2:30. You can sign up to attend the event, here. The Senator from Vermont has been endorsed by Jackson Mayor Chokwe Lumumba. Original Report: After a strong showing on ‘Super Tuesday’, Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden will be in Mississippi’s capital city on Sunday. The former Vice President will visit the Magnolia State on March 8th, which is two days before Mississippians will head to the polls for the primary elections. A press release from Biden’s campaign stated that a location and additional details will be announced soon, but multiple reports state that Biden will visit New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson. Biden won a majority of the states on Tuesday to move into the frontrunner role in the Democratic primary over Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. After a disappointing performance on Tuesday, former NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg called it quits and left the race, endorsing Biden on his way out. Bloomberg will reportedly join Biden on the campaign trail in Mississippi. “I’ve known Joe for a very long time. I know his decency, his honesty, and his commitment to the issues that are so important to our country – including gun safety, health care, climate change, and good jobs. “I’ve had the chance to work with Joe on those issues over the years, and Joe has fought for working people his whole life. Today I am glad to endorse him – and I will work to make him the next President of the United States,” Bloomberg said. Biden also received the endorsements of former candidates Amy Klobuchar and Pete Buttigieg. The race for the party’s nomination is now down to Biden, Sanders, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard. The post Biden, Sanders set to visit Mississippi ahead of March 10th primary appeared first on News Mississippi.
What to know about Kratom?
The drug policy committee met with both house and senate members on last Thursday afternoon to discuss a drug that is sold over the counter with no regulation, this drug is Kratom. Kratom has been the result of many overdoses in people of all ages but on the other side, it has been a pain reliever for some. This drug is in the coffee family, but it is not an opioid. It produces a caffeine-like stimulation and many users call it their “morning pick me up,” according to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Dr. Jack Henningfield. The drug also mimics some caffeine effects and also some opioid effects. Both groups fighting for this regulation were at the meeting giving their stance on the “drug.” One group (A) wants there to be more regulation, making this a schedule 1 drug since it does have the same effects as a “heroin high” and can cause an overdose since there is no dosage or regulation whatsoever and can be bought from a gas station. The other group (B), wants Kratom to become more regulated but not be a schedule 1 drug because then it would become illegal. Group B is wanting to see more regulations like placing an age limit on who can buy and making it less available to the general public but this would still allow people who take it as a “pain reliever” or the recovering addicts who take it to ease withdrawal symptoms. This drug is highly addictive and has the same “high” as heroin, according to Dr. Katherine Pannel. Dr. Pannel, who is a psychiatrist in Oxford, Batesville, and Winona area said that most of her patients were 30-40-year-old women who were needing a “morning pick-me-up” and some energy, they googled and found Kratom, then soon became addicts. Along the other side, Dr. Jack Henningfield, who has done much research on the drug, Kratom, says that this drug should be regulated, like making the minimum age to purchase it 18 or 21 and doing that it would discourage the use by young people but have little impact on those who use the drug for health reasons since most of those consumers are much older than the set age. Either side is looking to take some action against the drug. Side A – looking to ban it completely, which puts side B in fear that this will cause a black market for the drug to circulate and making it even more dangerous than it is being 100% unregulated. Although last night, on committee deadline, where if a bill is not brought up for discussion in the respected committee, it is labeled as “dead,’ and HB 1287, HB 1284 and SB 2084 is just that. These three bills authored each by Fred Shanks (1287), Charles Younger (2084), and Angela Cockerham (1284) all died in their committees, so no further action will be taken. The post What to know about Kratom? appeared first on News Mississippi.
New Corrections Commissioner search is progressing
On January 16th, Governor Tate Reeves announced the formation of a group to help find a new Commissioner for the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). The group, led by Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr., is conducting a nationwide search to provide a recommendation for the permanent Commissioner. The deadline to submit applications was last Saturday, February 29th, and Mayor Flaggs says the search has been productive. “So far, we have had around 50 applications submitted and I am impressed with what I have seen,” he said. On February 5th, Governor Reeves announced the criteria for the next Commissioner, as recommended by the search committee. What follows is the full criteria for the position of MDOC Commissioner: Mississippi Commissioner of Corrections Position Opening The Office of the Governor of the State of Mississippi is now accepting resumes for consideration to appointment as Mississippi’s next Commissioner of Corrections. This position provides overall management of the Department of Corrections to include its correctional facilities, administrative functions, and probation services. Of utmost importance is ensuring safety of personnel, offenders and the public while maintaining the efficiency of operations, emergency preparedness and adherence to policies and procedures set forth by Mississippi law. Candidates must demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively and maintain good working relationships with the community, the legislature, local, state and federal agencies, law enforcement, and the courts in the various counties of the State. Qualified candidates for the Commissioner of Corrections should have at least a bachelor’s degree in a field of study pertinent to the position. Work experience dealing with correctional institutions is preferred. In addition, all candidates should have management experience, including experience managing fiscal budgets. Candidates demonstrating excellent leadership skills and a proven ability to reform an organization or a governmental agency will be given the upmost consideration. The Governor’s appointment must be affirmed with the advice and consent of the Mississippi Senate. Selected candidates may be subjected to multiple interviews and a background investigation. Flaggs says, “I think, through the criteria established and the interview process, the final candidates are going to be great candidates, it’s just a matter of whether or not the state can afford who remains and if the legislature will approve paying more.” The previous commissioner, Pelicia Hall, made over $130,000 annually. Flaggs says, “Given the current situation, I don’t think that is going to be enough to attract the very best person we can get to resolve this issue and to make sure we never face this issue again.” Flaggs says the members of the search committee are now tasked with submitting their top five candidates from the pool of applicants. “Out of the five I have selected, I believe each one can do the job and has the expertise needed to perform.” Flaggs says, ultimately, the committee will submit at least three candidates to the Governor, vet the candidates, and ensure the candidate is committed to coming to work for the state of Mississippi. “Given the publicity around the corrections crisis, anyone who is chosen, and is committed to coming to the state during the crisis, is probably going to do a good job. Nobody in this country doesn’t know we are in a crisis; nobody in this country doesn’t know it’s in a deplorable situation; nobody in this country doesn’t know that we’re being sued; nobody in this country doesn’t know there have been some funding issues.” Flaggs says applications have been received from both inside Mississippi, as well as outside of the state. “We have some that have Mississippi connections, have lived in Mississippi, but no longer live in Mississippi now, but they know the landscape and are willing to come back to help make a contribution by turning this system around. The good news is that Governor Reeves has given us the latitude to hire the best we can hire. We don’t want to miss that opportunity.” Flaggs says each of the committee members will submit the names of their top five candidates on Friday, March 13th, and hope to have a finalist selected before the end of the legislative session. “The person that is chosen has to be confirmed by the Senate, so we want to give them time to be vetted. We’re looking at the end of March or the first part of April to try to submit some names to the Governor. The quicker we get somebody in place, the quicker we can bring about some stability. I applaud the Governor for making this a priority.” Flaggs says he will not vote on the candidate unless there is a tie in the search committee. “My job is to preside over them and to navigate them through this process. I have no vested interest other than to satisfy the Governor and making sure we get the best applicant out there.” Flaggs says, “We can’t make any more mistakes. We can’t have this kind of black eye on the state of Mississippi, anymore.” The post New Corrections Commissioner search is progressing appeared first on News Mississippi.
Governor Reeves announces appointment to First Circuit
Governor Tate Reeves has announced Michael P. “Chip” Mills, Jr. as his appointment for the judicial vacancy in the First Circuit Court District of Mississippi. The seat was recently vacated when Judge James L. Roberts, Jr. announced his retirement, effective February 29. “Chip is a highly experienced attorney with a history of dedicated public service. His experience as a prosecutor handling complex capital cases, his civil litigation experience, as well as his private and government practice make Chip uniquely qualified to serve as circuit judge,” said Governor Tate Reeves. Michael “Chip” Mills, Jr. began his career as an associate in an Oxford law firm, handling general litigation matters in both federal and state courts. After in 2010, he served as an assistant district attorney, trying many cases before juries in courthouses across the First Circuit Court District. In 2013, he started his own practice in his hometown of Fulton. Chip’s practice was a mix of circuit and chancery work, some of which included an appellate practice. He also served as the Itawamba County Prosecutor and the board attorney for the City of Fulton ad the Town of Mantachie. Reeves said, “As an active member of the local business community and as a career prosecutor, Chip has developed a wide and varied network across civil and criminal spectrums throughout the First Circuit Court District.” The post Governor Reeves announces appointment to First Circuit appeared first on News Mississippi.
MDE releases guidelines as officials monitor coronavirus outbreak
Image courtesy of the CDC Mississippi schools are taking steps to prevent the spread of coronavirus in classrooms across the state. While there are currently no confirmed cases of the virus (COVID-19) in Mississippi, the Department of Education has provided a set of guidelines regarding preparation and prevention methods to schools. “Though the risk to Mississippi is currently low, basic infection control should always be promoted and maintained, and schools need to be prepared in the event of a local illness outbreak,” said Dr. Carey Wright, state superintendent. “The MDE will continue to work with state and federal health officials and leaders to support the health and well-being of students, school and district employees, and communities.” Developed with input from state and federal health officials, the guidelines include information on personal protection and hygiene, preventing stigma against populations associated with COVID-19, consulting with health departments to determine the need for school closure, and CDC guidance for schools and businesses to plan and respond to COVID-19. Examples of the guidelines include: Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze Routinely clean and sanitize classrooms Stay home when sick (Students & Staff) Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to flu-like symptoms. Current symptoms reported for patients with COVID-19 have included mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. For a look at the full set of guidelines, click here. The post MDE releases guidelines as officials monitor coronavirus outbreak appeared first on News Mississippi.
Over $1.3 Million returned to taxpayers in February
The office of State Auditor Shad White has returned over $1.3 million in stolen or misused funds back to Mississippi taxpayers. White says significant amounts were returned in cases involving several town officials in Pelahatchie; the mayor of Aberdeen, Maurice Howard; the former Chancery Clerk of Humphreys County, Lawrence Browder; the former town clerk of Raleigh, Helen Bounds; and the commissioners of the Town Creek Master Water Management Board: *In May 2018 Special Agents from the Auditor’s office issued demand letters to 10 current and former town officials in Pelahatchie after they used restricted law enforcement bank accounts to operate the town. After the Attorney General’s office litigated the case to recover additional damages, $543,038.04 was returned to the town in February. The case has now been paid in full. *Special Agents arrested Maurice Howard for embezzlement in October 2019 after he was accused of stealing from the City of Aberdeen by taking travel advance checks from the city and failing to attend the corresponding out-of-town meeting. The $11,649.34 demand issued to him has now been paid in full by a surety bond company, and Howard remains liable in criminal proceedings. *Former Humphreys County Chancery Clerk Lawrence Browder was arrested in January 2019 after he falsified court records to steal over $30,000 from Humphreys County residents. He also overpaid himself by more than $200,000 during his time in office. Browder entered a guilty plea to the charges against him and must complete his court-ordered sentence. The Auditor recovered $92,521.94 last month from a surety bond company and returned it to the Humphreys County Board of Supervisors. Browder remains liable for over $187,000 of the demand issued to him. *Helen Bounds was arrested in November 2019 after she was indicted for embezzling from the Town of Raleigh by issuing extra payroll checks to herself. The Auditor’s office collected the full amount of Bounds’ demand letter from a surety bond company and returned it to the Town of Raleigh. Bounds still faces criminal charges in a Smith County trial currently scheduled for next month. *In March 2019, Auditor White announced the commissioners of the Town Creek Master Water Management District had been issued demand letters worth a total of over $520,000. The commissioners voted to reimburse and pay themselves in excess of the allowable amount. In February, the Auditor recovered $298,050.83 from a surety bond company and returned it to the affected taxpayers in Lee, Pontotoc, Prentiss, and Union Counties. “Since coming into office in July 2018, the Auditor’s office has identified over $5 million in stolen or misspent public money and has now recovered and returned over $4 million back to the taxpayers where it belongs,” said White. “February was our most successful month yet for returning money to the public during my tenure, and I look forward to more months like this in the future.” Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office online at www.osa.ms.gov or call 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours. W When the Auditor’s office successfully concludes cases and money is recovered, that money is returned to the government office from which the money was originally taken. The post Over $1.3 Million returned to taxpayers in February appeared first on News Mississippi.
Jackson State student manager nails three-pointer on senior night
Lee E. Williams Athletics & Assembly Center. Photo courtesy of JSU Athletics A moment during Jackson State basketball’s senior night is getting national attention. With 2:05 left in the game, the Tigers led UAPB 74-46 when the crowd began to chant “”WE WANT SNACKS”. As the chants echoed in the Lee E. Williams Athletics & Assembly Center, Thomas “Snacks” Lee got up and checked into the game for the first time in his career after serving as the team’s student manager for the past few seasons. Lee hoisted up three shots from beyond the arc that didn’t fall, but with just over :30 left, Lee pulled up and drilled one from downtown. Jackson State’s student manager suited up and checked in for the final two minutes. He’d never appeared in a college game before. Thomas “Snacks” Lee delivered (via @AllHailDorian)pic.twitter.com/OjLx62s6Aj — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 3, 2020 Lee’s shot has been shared all over social media as well as being shown on ESPN’s ‘Get Up’. The Tigers won the game 76-56 and move to 12-17 on the season. The post Jackson State student manager nails three-pointer on senior night appeared first on News Mississippi.