Late Robert George Clark, Jr. honored; Week of March 3 Mississippi House update

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — The Mississippi House convened at 4 p.m. on Monday, March 3, marking the ninth week of the legislative session. Lawmakers met a key March 4 deadline requiring committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments from the opposite chamber. The House also passed House Resolution 81 which honors the late Robert George Clark Jr.

House Resolution 81 recognizes Clark’s historic achievement as the first African American elected to the Mississippi Legislature in the 20th century. The resolution commemorates his leadership as speaker pro tempore, his dedication to education, civil rights, and public service, and extends condolences to his family and friends. His legacy continues through his son, Rep. Bryant Clark, who currently serves in the House.

On Wednesday, the House welcomed the award-winning Holmes County Central Singers, who performed the national anthem. Founded in 2018 by Pierrdro Gallion, the choir has earned top ratings and performed at Carnegie Hall in April 2023.

The House passed several Senate bills this week, including:

• JR 202 – Adjusts Mississippi State Senate districts in response to a federal court ruling, ensuring compliance with the Voting Rights Act while minimizing disruptions.
• SB 2424 – Establishes the Entertainment Industry and Workforce Development Task Force to evaluate policies and propose strategies for growing Mississippi’s creative economy. Recommendations are due by Dec. 1, 2025.
• SB 2280 – Requires hunters to obtain a wild turkey stamp, with exemptions for minors, seniors, and disabled individuals. Proceeds will support conservation and research efforts. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.
• SB 2276 – Extends hunting seasons for deer, bobwhite quail, wild turkey, squirrels, rabbits, and fur-bearing animals. If the open season ends on a Friday, it will now extend until 30 minutes after sunset on the following Sunday.
• SB 3055 – Appropriates funds for the Mississippi Department of Tourism for fiscal year 2025-2026, contingent on the passage of SB 2573, which would establish the department.

The House has until March 12 to take original floor action on general bills and constitutional amendments from the Senate. Lawmakers will reconvene Monday at 2 p.m.