Mississippi House of Representatives – Final Week Report of the 2025 Legislative Session

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — The Mississippi House of Representatives gaveled in at 1 p.m. on Monday, marking the 13th and final week of the 2025 Regular Legislative Session. The week was marked by significant legislative activity, the passage of key bills, and final adoption of conference reports on general and revenue measures.

Throughout the week, the Mississippi House of Representatives also recognized the accomplishments of outstanding Mississippians and hosted visitors from across the state. A series of heartfelt resolutions were adopted, highlighting the spirit of community and excellence across Mississippi.

Among them was House Resolution 34, honoring longtime broadcaster Jim Ellis on his retirement after 46 years as the play-by-play voice of Mississippi State University baseball. Affectionately known as “The Voice of the Diamond Dawgs,” Ellis was behind the mic for numerous NCAA tournaments, SEC championships and the Bulldogs’ first national title in 2021.

House Resolutions 119 and 123 recognized high school football programs. The Kirk Academy Raiders were commended for winning the 2024 MAIS Class 3A state championship. The Grenada High School Chargers were also honored for securing their first MHSAA Class 6A state title.

House Resolution 128 celebrated the Jackson Prep Lady Patriots basketball team for winning the 2024–25 MAIS Class 6A title, their 10th overall, following a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback.

House Resolution 115 recognized the Ingomar Lady Falcons for winning the MHSAA Class 2A state championship. Their 58–28 victory marked a third straight title and the program’s 14th overall. The team finished the season 32–2.

Several notable pieces of legislation were also finalized:

• House Bill 1544 proposes amendments to the Mississippi Code to revise the number of judges and residency requirements across various circuit and chancery court districts. It updates district compositions, reassigns precincts, adjusts judicial seats and schedules a 2025 special election for a new circuit judge position.
• HB 1193 prohibits public schools and colleges from promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, using diversity statements in hiring or admissions, or endorsing “divisive concepts.” It mandates instruction that there are only two genders based on chromosomal makeup and allows private enforcement and state oversight.
• HB 599 allows civil lawsuits against commercial entities that knowingly publish obscene material or child pornography online. Exemptions are included for internet service providers and news organizations.
• HB 1341 extends the Mississippi Health Care Industry Zone Act through July 1, 2028, maintaining tax incentives and exemptions for qualifying facilities and businesses.
• HB 1203 addresses unauthorized camping on public property. The bill allows removal of individuals and belongings and imposes a fine of up to $50. Courts may consider mitigating factors.
• HB 1461 expands the definition of “capital improvements” to include any project approved by the Mississippi Development Authority, broadening access to local government loan funding.

Although lawmakers reached a conference agreement on HB 1123, aimed at supporting independent pharmacists while protecting drug prices, the bill died on the calendar following a point of order.

The House passed a resolution to suspend the rules to allow the Senate until 5 p.m. April 2 to vote on the measure. The Senate did not act, and the House adjourned sine die on Wednesday, April 2. A special session is expected to finalize the state budget before the end of the fiscal year.