Percy W. Watson

This bill makes multiple small regulatory reforms that reduce restrictions within the alcohol industry. For example, the bill extends the issuance of festival wine permits for an additional three years, allows retail package stores to sell alcohol-infused "edibles," and allows drive-thru sales of alcohol by the glass in a leisure and recreation district located near the Gulf of Mexico. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens individual liberties by removing overreaching regulations that restrict competition within the alcohol industry and infringe on consumer choice.

Extending Exemptions from Certain Anti-Competitive Alcohol Regulations and Implementing Additional Minor Pro-Liberty Reforms Concerning Alcohol.

This bill expands the process for removing county elected officers to also include municipal officers. Under this process, citizens may file a petition with the Governor and a removal election may be held to determine whether an officer should be removed. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens government accountability by expanding the citizens abilities to hold their elected leaders accountable.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Expanding the State's Elected Officer Removal Process to Also Include Municipal Elected Officers.

This bill authorizes localities to allow retail liquor sales on Sundays from 1pm-6pm. Support is the Limited Government Position as government should not infringe on individual liberties through anti-competitive measures that limit alcohol sales. While this measure only allows sales on Sundays during a 5-hour window, this represents a step in the right direction.

Expanding Individual Liberties by Authorizing Liquor Stores to Operate from 1pm - 6pm on Sundays.

This bill prohibits automobile manufacturers from owning or operating a dealership from which to sell their vehicles (with a carveout allowing electric vehicle manufacturers to operate one dealership). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as forcing consumes to go through dealers (middlemen) instead of proving them the option to buy directly from manufacturers hikes vehicle costs by thousands of dollars. This also provides select EV manufacturers a competitive advantage against manufacturers not favored by the government.

Hiking New Car Prices by Further Worsening the State's Draconian Automotive Regulations to Block Electric Vehicle Manufacturers from Selling Directly to Consumers.

This bill provides millions of dollars in taxpayer funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to promote tourism marketing, including a direct $1 million carveout to Narratrip LLC to help cover the costs for municipalities to "participate in and be promoted as part of the business's mobile apps geared toward promoting tourism in the state." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to "promote tourism," let alone enrich politically connected companies at the expense of hardworking Mississippians. Instead of this government central planning scheme, lawmakers could create far greater economic growth by lowering tax rates for all companies and empowering the free-market to direct the tourism industry.

Enriching "Destination Marketing Organizations" by Channeling Millions of Taxpayer Funds to Select Companies Favored by Government for Wasteful Tourism Marketing.

This bill expands the definition of a "qualified resort area" for purposes of the Local Option Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, allowing additional establishments to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill expands both competition and individual liberties by allowing a greater range of establishments to offer patrons alcoholic beverages.

Strengthening Individual Liberties by Expanding "Qualified Resort Areas" which Allow the Sale and Consumption of Alcohol.

This bill enacts the state budget for fiscal year 2024, which includes $7.6 billion in spending, making it the largest budget enacted in state history. Notable expenditures include a $104 million bailout for hospitals, $1.2 billion in state subsidies for colleges and universities, and $600 million for individual lawmaker projects ahead of the election year. The bill does not provide any tax relief. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this budget, with its record spending levels and non-existent tax relief, more closely resembles a budget found in a Democrat-controlled state, such as California, not a state entirely under Republican control. The over $1 billion in wealth redistribution for higher education is especially insulting to hardworking Mississippians who choose to pursue the trades and start businesses instead of enlisting in woke government-run colleges. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending through a $7.6 Billion State Budget - the Largest in State History with Countless Wasteful Initiatives and Lawmaker Pet-Projects.

The Hines amendment #1 to a bill related to water and sewer utility billing. This amendment adds language providing that if a natural event occurs and city officials encourage residents to run their water, causing an "excessive bill," the city is permitted to "revert back to the last month billing amount" that was charged to residents. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment expands wealth redistribution by "forgiving" water usage for certain residents, which inevitably results in these costs being transferred onto others.

Expanding Wealth Redistribution by Permitting Localities to "Forgive" Water and Sewer Usage.

This bill prohibits localities from basing water utility rates on property values, instead requiring billing to be based on actual usage. This bill is in response to the City of Jackson, which announced plans to base water service fees on assessed property values, with higher-valued homes paying more each month than lower-valued homes. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure combats wealth distribution by preventing localities efforts to shift burdens onto higher-income individuals rather than addressing the fiscal irresponsibility that created the problem.

Combatting Wealth Redistribution by Preventing Localities from Charging Individuals Different Utility Rates based on the Value of a Home or Business.

This bill further expands the state's tax subsidy program for movie production to now include the production of television series in the state. Under the bill, production companies may receive up to 35% of certain TV production costs paid for by taxpayers, with an overall program cap of $10 million annually. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. This measure's tax cronyism merely enriches woke Hollywood film producers at the direct expense of everyday Mississippians. Instead of this central planning scheme, lawmakers should instead provide a broad tax cut across all industries, which will allow the free market to provide far greater job and business growth.

Enriching Woke Hollywood Producers by Forcing Taxpayers to Subsidize up to $10 Million in TV Series Production Costs.

This bill requires any state agency requesting an exemption from oversight under the State Personnel Board to submit a detailed justification to the legislature and board. The State Personnel Board is the human resources arm of the state government. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens government accountability by combatting government bureaucrats efforts to skirt oversight.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Requiring Agencies Seeking Exemptions from Oversight to Submit Detailed Requests to Both the Legislature and State Personnel Board.

This bill establishes the "Mississippi Office of Space and Technology" within the Mississippi Development Authority. The new bureaucracy will expand the state's involvement within the aerospace industry. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, just like the rest of the Mississippi Development Authority, there is no reason for the existence of such a bureaucracy as it goes against the core and limited duties of government. Instead of constantly working to expand the size and scope of government, lawmakers should reverse course and pursue every available avenue to reign in their out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Expanding Unnecessary Bureaucracy and Spending through the Creation of the "Mississippi Office of Space and Technology".

This bill increases fines and penalties for shoplifting. For example, the bill revises how fines are calculated by basing them on the total price of all items stolen in a jurisdiction over the past 30 days. Additionally, the bill increases fine amounts and requires at least 48 hours of imprisonment for a second conviction. Support is the Limited Government Position as arguably the most important function of government is maintaining national and local public safety, and shoplifting has a tremendous impact on business financials, ultimately driving up consumer costs. This bill is especially necessary considering the implementation of so-called criminal justice "reforms," which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by left-leaning billionaires through their funding of liberal - and even some conservative - advocacy organizations.

Reducing Crime and Protecting Businesses from Theft by Increasing Fines and Penalties for Shoplifting.

This bill increases government spending on prekindergarten by increasing the reimbursement rate provided to childcare centers under the state's "Early Learning Collaboratives" program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further expands the size of government and increases spending on an initiative that exceeds the core K-12 educational duties of taxpayers. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Hiking Spending on Pre-K Initiatives which Exceed the Core K-12 Educational Duties of Taxpayers.

This bill provides local governments new powers to pursue administrative and civil penalties for violations of their zoning ordinances. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, like all government central planning attempts, many of the zoning and land use ordinances enacted across the state are overreaching and oftentimes designed to benefit select developers and landowners. This bill may inflict further harm onto landowners whose property rights have been infringed by local governments.

Advancing Government Overreach by Granting Localities New Power to Impose a Series of Additional Fines for Zoning Ordinance Violations.

This bill prohibits state and local governments from adopting ordinances or regulations to enforce any federal laws or regulations of firearm suppressors that are not also part of state law. The bill also eliminates the crime of concealed carry of a firearm suppressor. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure helps reduce unnecessary barriers for lawful individuals wishing to exercise their Second Amendment rights, barriers which do nothing to deter criminals from engaging in unlawful behavior.

Protecting 2nd Amendment Rights by Prohibiting the Enactment of Additional Regulations or Bans on Firearm Suppressors.

This bill, known as the "Mississippi Fully Autonomous Vehicle Enabling (MS FAVE) Act of 2023," establishes a regulatory framework to enable the operation of fully autonomous vehicles across the state and authorizes "on-demand autonomous vehicle networks". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure advances innovation and spurs economic growth by allowing the deployment of autonomous vehicles. Such new technology can provide significant benefits to society, including lower consumer costs.

Advancing Innovation and Economic Growth by Establishing a Framework to Enable the Operation of Fully Autonomous Vehicles within the State.

This bill expands the jurisdiction of the Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID), creates a separate judicial district, and provides for the appointment of 4 additional judges and staff. This measure is in response to spiraling crime rates within the city - despite the fact Jackson has only 6% of the state's population it has accounted for more than 50% of the state's homicides. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring national and local security is arguably the most important duty of government. While some may misconstrue this bill as overreach by the state, the U.S. Constitution only recognizes three entities: the federal government, the state government, and the individual. Therefore, the state has a duty to correct the failures of local-level governments.

Increasing Public Safety within Jackson by Expanding the Jurisdiction of the Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID) and Court System to Combat Crime.

This bill, known as the "Universal Changing Tables Installation Incentive Grant Program Act," provides grants of up to $5,000 per universal changing table installed in restrooms by state agencies, local governments, private and commercial building owners, and others. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector, through charitable endeavors and commitments by large-scale companies, is the best mechanism to foster a greater number of changing tables across the public sector. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Forcing Taxpayers to Pay for "Universal Changing Tables" in the Restrooms of Both Public and Private Entities.

This bill, known as the "Mississippi Broadband Accessibility Act," creates a fund to support "expansion and accessibility of broadband in unserved areas." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as providing "broadband service" is not one of the core and essential duties of government. The private sector and the free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. Additionally, significant advances in satellite technology may make most broadband expansion projects unnecessary.

Growing Government Central Planning and Interference in the Private Sector through the Creation of the "Mississippi Broadband Accessibility Act".

This bill further expands the state's restriction on alcoholic beverage manufacturers having an ownership interest in wholesalers or distributors. The restriction will now include additional "affiliated companies". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all manufactures of alcoholic beverages should have the freedom to sell their products directly to retailers and consumers. The state's draconian wholesaler law merely enriches a "middleman" in the sales process which unnecessarily drives up consumer costs and choice.

Worsening the State's Draconian Wholesaler Laws by Imposing Additional Anti-Competitive Prohibitions on Alcoholic Beverage Manufactures Having Ownership in Wholesalers or Distributors.

This bill imposes a series of new regulations on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). For example, PBMs must abide by multiple new price controls and other government provisions in their contracting agreements with local pharmacies as well as meet various new reporting requirements. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the nation witnessed first-hand the disastrous consequences and cost of growing government regulatory power in healthcare (i.e. Obamacare). Instead of working to promote a freer market through regulatory reduction, lawmakers added a series of new layers of regulations through this measure, including utilizing government to provide local pharmacies with more favorable outcomes in their private contract negotiations with PBMs.

Growing Government Regulatory Power within the Pharmaceutical Industry by Imposing a Series of New Mandates on Pharmacy Benefit Managers.

This bill expands the definition of "vote fraud," to now also include "any person who fraudulently requests or submits an absentee ballot application for any voter." Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining safeguards to prevent voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Establishing Penalties for Fraudulently Requesting Absentee Ballots.

This bill contains several provisions related to election security. The bill requires the Secretary of State to conduct post-election audits of all counties and to compare the Statewide Elections Management System to the driver's license database to identify any "potential noncitizen." Additionally, the bill requires that counties ensure any computer with access to the Statewide Elections Management System has appropriate security measures. Finally, the bill establishes a process for sending a "confirmation notice" to confirm a voter's current address based on various reasons and purging of the voter if they do not respond. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining safeguards to prevent voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity through a Package of Reforms to Ensure Increased Accuracy of Voter Rolls, Post-Election Audits and that Only U.S. Citizens May Vote.

This bill authorizes Benton County to provide $60,000 annually to the Institute of Community Services, Inc. (ICS), also known as Head Start, a private organization which provides pre-school services. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds - at any level of government - should not be used to fund private pre-school organizations. The private sector, through charitable endeavors, is best equipped to direct funding to the groups and initiatives that are most needed and beneficial to communities.

Enriching a Government-Favored Non-Profit in Benton County by Forcing Taxpayers to Pay for the Pre-Schooling Costs of Select Children.

This bill appropriates $10.1 million to the Mississippi Arts Commission. This government entity awards grants to a long list of individuals and organizations to subsidize their art, music, and film endeavors. For example, the commission awarded $16,000 to an entity (OxFilm) that sponsors films on Queer and LGBTQ life. It also provides cash to the Mt. Zion Memorial Fund, which utilizes Critical Race Theory to examine "White Supremacy & Historic Preservation".  Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to fund divisive social initiatives, such as Critical Race Theory and LGBTQ films. Furthermore, the private sector - not government bureaucrats - should be the entity funding the arts. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund LGBTQ Films and Critical Race Theory Through a $10.1 Million Appropriation to the Mississippi Arts Commission.

This bill contains a major provision that expands the application of an existing 50% income tax credit for employers who provide childcare for their employees during work hours. Under this bill, the tax credit also applies in cases when an employer provides a stipend of $6,000 or more to a childcare entity to provide the childcare for an employee. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to pay for select individuals through this wealth redistribution scheme. Instead of growing government, lawmakers should empower the free market to make childcare more affordable and accessible by reducing regulations and other anti-competitive measures.

Forcing Taxpayers to Pay for Other Individual's Childcare Costs by Worsening an Employer Tax Credit Scheme.

This bill, known as the "Deficit Prevention Act," requires state agencies to operate within their annual appropriations and prohibits acting in a manner that results in a deficit. Under the bill, if an agency determines it is likely to go over its budget for the year, it is required to notify the Governor, Lt. Governor, and certain legislators. The agency would also be required to work to avoid and/or limit the deficit, which includes limiting travel and conference attendance to only essentials and limiting purchases of equipment, vehicles, and "other nonnecessities." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill protects taxpayers by establishing safeguards against fiscally irresponsible and reckless agency spending. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting State Agencies from Operating in a Manner that Will Result in a Year-End Deficit.

This bill establishes a process to remove appointed state officers for "willful neglect." This includes officers who fail to respond to a subpoena, fail to comply with a court-order or state agreement for the repayment of misspent funds, and fail to attend three consecutive meetings of a board or commission without justification. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens government accountability by ensuring appointed state officers are held accountable, which is especially important because appointed positions are not elected, and, thus, not directly accountable to voters.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Establishing a Process to Remove Appointed State Officers for "Willful Neglect".

This bill, known as the Mississippi School Safety Guardian Act, authorizes school districts to allow certain school employees to carry a concealed firearm in order to respond to an active shooter. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens school security by improving the ability of teachers and other employees to protect students and themselves.

Strengthening School Security by Providing a Pathway for Educators to Carry Concealed Firearms to Protect Students.

This bill establishes a five-year mandatory minimum sentence for knowingly receiving stolen vehicles or property worth $25,000 or more. Mandatory sentences are measures designed to help combat the practice of "judge shopping" whereby career criminals attempt to have their cases moved to be heard by the most lenient judge to avoid significant penalties. Support is the Limited Government Position as arguably the most important function of government is maintaining public safety, and mandatory minimum sentences serve as critical tools to protect the public from dangerous career criminals. This bill is especially necessary considering the implementation of so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by left-leaning billionaires through their funding of liberal - and even some conservative - advocacy organizations.

Protecting Communities from Violent Carjackings by Establishing Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Knowingly Receiving Stolen Vehicles and Property.

This bill establishes a five-year mandatory minimum sentence for carjacking and a 10-year mandatory minimum for an armed carjacking. Additionally, the bill establishes a five-year mandatory minimum sentence for fleeing a law enforcement officer when the action results in a serious bodily injury of the officer or anyone involved, and a seven-year mandatory minimum if the action results in a death of the officer or anyone involved. Mandatory sentences are measures designed to help combat the practice of "judge shopping" whereby career criminals attempt to have their cases moved to be heard by the most lenient judge to avoid significant penalties. Support is the Limited Government Position as arguably the most important function of government is maintaining public safety, and mandatory minimum sentences serve as critical tools to protect the public from dangerous career criminals. This bill is especially necessary considering the implementation of so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by left-leaning billionaires through their funding of liberal - and even some conservative - advocacy organizations.

Protecting Communities from Violent Carjackings and Deadly Police Chases by Establishing Mandatory Minimum Sentences

This bill prevents state employees and officers from downloading or accessing TikTok or other applications controlled by U.S. foreign adversaries, such as China or Russia, on state devices or networks. Support is the Limited Government Position as the installation of such systems poses a significant and unnecessary threat to state and federal networks. Additionally, state employees should not be utilizing government equipment to access entertainment apps such as TikTok.

Strengthening National Security by Banning TikTok and Other Chinese Government-Owned Applications from Being Accessed on State-Issued Devices or Networks.

This bill extends the duration of postpartum coverage provided under Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) from 60 days to 1 year. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government dependency under the state's Medicaid welfare program. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Government Dependency and Ballooning Medicaid Welfare Spending to Over $900 Million by Hiking Postpartum Benefits from 60 Days to 12 Months.

This bill establishes a new legal and regulatory framework for "pet insurance policies." This includes disclosure requirements for policies and empowers the Commissioner of Insurance to enact training requirements to sell pet insurance policies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government power and the regulatory state. While there is a role of government to protect individuals from fraudulent practices, this overreach significantly adds to the already overregulation of the insurance industry, limiting policy options and driving up costs for consumers.

Growing Government to Now Regulate "Pet Insurance Policies" and Impose New Mandates on Policy Conditions and Sales.

This bill transfers the "Coker House" and the surrounding 250 acres to the U.S. National Park Service. The property is associated with the civil war "Battle of Champion Hill". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the Federal Government owns a staggering 47% of all land west of the Mississippi river and continues to unsustainably grow its holdings of historical properties. The private sector (through foundations, museums, etc.) is best equipped to determine the historical structures most in need of preserving, while also ensuring their proper upkeep and maximizing the value they provide to visitors.

Further Growing the Enormous Land and Property Holdings of the Federal Government by Transferring the Coker House to the U.S. Park Service.

This bill extends the state's energy efficiency standards imposed on all buildings for an additional three years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill advances a politicized environmental agenda while infringing on the rights of private building owners to make their own decisions on how energy efficient they wish to make their properties. These "one size-fits-all" mandates unnecessarily drive-up building costs while enriching engineering firms and businesses which are within the energy efficiency industry. Property rights should not be infringed on at any level of government.

Hiking Building Costs and Advancing a Politicized Environmental Agenda by Extending the Authority of Local Governments to Impose Energy Efficiency Standards.

This bill provides a "right of first refusal" to existing utility companies to construct new transmission facilities and infrastructure for electricity. As a result, other outside companies that construct electricity infrastructure are unable to bid on projects unless an existing utility company declines to take on a new project. As regulated entities, a utility company's profit is based on a fixed percentage of the costs they incur, thus disincentivizing utilities from reducing costs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this protectionist measure is merely designed to enrich existing utility companies by restricting competition. As a result, families and businesses across the state will unnecessarily face higher monthly electricity bills.

Hiking Mississippi Electricity Costs through Protectionist "Right of First Refusal" Regulations which Enrich Utility Companies and Prevent Competitive Bidding for Transmission Infrastructure.

This bill expands the jurisdiction of the Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID) and the jurisdiction of the state's police force to bolster law enforcement within the City of Jackson. This measure is in response to spiraling crime rates within the city - despite the fact Jackson has only 6% of the state's population it has accounted for more than 50% of the state's homicides. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring national and local security is arguably the most important duty of government. While some may misconstrue this bill as overreach by the state, the U.S. Constitution only recognizes three entities: the federal government, the state government, and the individual. Therefore, the state has a duty to correct the failures of local-level governments.

Increasing Public Safety within Jackson by Expanding the Jurisdiction of the Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID) and State Policy Force to Combat Crime.

This bill prohibits the practice of "ballot harvesting" by limiting the collection of ballots to just certain individuals, such as election officials, postal workers, and family members. The bill is designed to prevent political parties and third-party organizations from engaging in mass ballot-collection efforts. Support is the Limited Government Position as "ballot harvesting" leads to voter harassment by political operatives. Maintaining safeguards to prevent voter intimidation and fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Banning the Practice of "Ballot Harvesting".

This bill creates a publicly available "Public Funds Offender Registry" to list individuals convicted of certain offenses such as bribery, embezzlement, misappropriation of public funds, or influencing voting or election activities. Under the bill, state and local governments are prohibited from hiring anyone on the registry for positions involving public funds. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure aims to increase government integrity by helping prevent bribery, embezzlement, and similar offenses that cost taxpayers and erode public trust.

Strengthening Government Integrity through the Creation of a "Public Funds Offender Registry" to Prevent Future State and Local Government Hiring.

This bill allows the Country Club of Jackson Homeowners Association (as well as other HOAs) to switch back to the well system it utilized prior to being annexed into the City of Jackson. The bill is in response to the City of Jackson's disastrous management of its water supply, which has resulted in numerous delivery and environmental problems. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens individual liberties by empowering private HOAs to make their own decisions on their water procurement and bypasses the failures of government-provided services.

Reducing the Scope of Government by Allowing a Homeowners Association to Procure its Own Water Supply Apart from the City of Jackson.

This bill establishes a new "Forestry Facility Grant Program," which provides $10 million in taxpayer subsidies to projects that supposedly lead to the expansion of the state's forestry products industry. The funds may be used for purposes such as to acquire land, install power lines, and build roads and railroads. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this cronyism benefits government-favored companies within the forestry industry while shifting tax burdens onto other businesses and individuals not favored by government. Instead of this cronyism, lawmakers should lower tax rates for all businesses and empower the free-market to expand economic growth.

Expanding Cronyism by Channeling $10 Million in Taxpayer Funds to Enrich the Forestry Industry through the "Forestry Facility Grant Program".

This bill establishes additional regulations on freshwater fishing guides and increases fees for licensing of guide serviced and outfitters. Previously, licenses were $150 and $250 respectively, but are increased to a minimum of $500 for residents and $2,000 for non-residents. Additionally, the bill requires boats used for fishing guide services to be registered with the state and have an annual license and decal. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this protectionist measure is designed to protect in-state fishing guides by restricting competition from out-of-state guides. This additional interference in the marketplace harms consumers seeking to enlist on fishing expeditions by reducing competition and hiking costs.

Hiking Fees and Regulations on Freshwater Fishing Guide Licensing to Restrict Competition from Out-of-State Guides.

This bill directs taxpayers to fund electric vehicle charging stations across the state for owners of electric vehicles. Specifically, the bill authorizes the Mississippi Transportation Commission to design, construct and operate electric vehicle charging stations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should not advance their politicized environmental agenda by forcing owners of gas-powered vehicles to fund the charging infrastructure and amenities of individuals who choose to purchase electric vehicles.

Advancing a Politicized Environmental Agenda by Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Electric Vehicle Charging Stations for EV Owners through the Mississippi Transportation Commission.

This bill establishes a new health insurance mandate that requires all healthcare policies offered in the state to provide coverage of any treatment or services provided by state or local health departments. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill infringes on private contracting rights and forces insurers to contract with government entities. This reduces a health insurance provider's ability to negotiate fee schedules and other terms and the additional costs will ultimately get passed onto all insured individuals through higher premiums.

Hiking Insurance Premiums by Mandating Health Insurers Provide Coverage for Services by State and Local Health Departments in the Same Manner as Other Providers.

This bill, known as the "Mississippi Digital Asset Mining Act," prevents local government from passing certain additional regulations or zoning ordinances that obstruct the ability of individuals to operate "digital asset mining businesses" to mine bitcoin or other virtual currencies. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens property rights by combatting overreaching government regulations that infringe on the right of individuals to mine digital currencies. This measure is especially important considering the reckless and dangerous monetary actions that have been taken by the Federal Reserve, such as quantitative easing.

Strengthening Property Rights by Protecting the Right of Individuals to Mine Bitcoins and Other Digital Currencies.

This bill allows counties and municipalities with small populations below 22,500 to opt out of requiring construction permits if they decide to do so by their board of supervisors. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens property rights and reduces construction costs by eliminating the burden and delay of government permitting - especially in cases where small localities do not have the needed infrastructure to run such a permitting program.

Strengthening Property Rights and Reducing Construction Costs by Allowing Small Localities to End Permitting Requirements.

This bill establishes a "trigger" which ends the tax exemptions provided under the Growth and Prosperity Act when a region's unemployment rate drops below 150% of the state-wide average for more than three years. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should completely repeal the Mississippi Development Authority and its associated market-distorting tax exemption schemes, and instead lower tax rates equally for all companies and regions. The free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - will provide far greater economic growth.

Reducing Cronyism by Establishing a "Trigger" which Cuts-off Corporate Welfare and Tax Subsidies Based on Employment Rates Across Counties.

This bill extends for an additional three years a localities ability to grant certain renewable energy projects exemptions from ad valorem taxes. As a result, localities can continue to exempt projects of $100 million or more from taxation on up to 50% of their assessed value. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. The central planning and tax cronyism, which is allowed to continue under this measure, enriches the renewable energy industry while shifting tax burdens onto other property owners.

Hiking Property Tax Rates by Extending the Crony Tax Exemptions Provided to Certain Government-Favored Renewable Energy Projects.

This bill extends for an additional three years the provision of state law allowing the State Board of Education to abolish the board of a "failing" school district and appoint a new board for the district. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes by ensuring school districts, which are failing students and families, are addressed and remedied. Such situations highlight the need for the expansion of school choice, which improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Extending the Ability of the State Board of Education to Appoint School Board Members in Failing School Districts.

This bill provides municipal authorities the same eminent domain and bond (debt) issuance powers that are currently provided to "public improvement districts." As a result, government officials within cities have even powers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill weakens property rights and grows government by providing a greater range of officials the ability to take property through eminent domain and indebt residents through bond issuance.

Weakening Property Rights by Providing Municipal Authorities a Greater Range of Debt Issuance and Eminent Domain Powers.

This bill increases the amount of research and development subsidies that technology companies can claim under various state programs such as "Innovate Mississippi." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the research and development costs that private companies may incur developing their own products. Instead of this tax cronyism, lawmakers should lower tax rates for all companies and allow the free-market to boost economic growth by directing capital to the most promising investment initiatives.

Worsening Cronyism by Forcing Taxpayers to Provide Even Greater Subsidies to Government-Favored Technology Businesses under the "Innovate Mississippi" Program.

This bill imposes a series of mandates surrounding state and local government procurement of "small unmanned aircraft systems and drones" (sUAS). For example, the bill requires drone procurement to only come from domestic manufacturers and provides a 10% bid preference if the manufacturer is based in Mississippi. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as absent any security concerns - which should be addressed individually as opposed to this one size-fits all mandate - protectionist measures, such as this, unnecessarily drive-up taxpayer costs. Free trade has been a foundational principle of limited government dating back to Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, who identified the disastrous consequences of protectionist trade practices in the "Wealth of Nations" in 1776.

Hiking Taxpayer Costs by Imposing Unnecessary Protectionist Procurement Mandates on State Procurement of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones).

This bill provides an additional $45 million in tax credits under the Mississippi Small Business Investment Company Act. This program, run by the Mississippi Development Authority, awards the credits to certain individuals or entities that make capital investments in start-ups. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. The central planning and tax cronyism enacted under this measure provides special benefits and competitive advantages to select businesses while shifting tax burdens to all other companies. Instead, lawmakers should lower tax rates for all companies, which will allow the free market to provide much greater job and business growth.

Worsening Cronyism and Government Central Planning by Providing $45 Million in Additional Subsidies Under the MS Small Business Investment Company Act.

This bill exempts sales of precious metal coins and bullion (gold, silver, platinum, and palladium) from the state's 7% sales tax. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps ensure gold and silver bullion can serve as an alternative competitive currency to the dollar. This is especially critical considering the reckless policies of the Federal Reserve, such as quantitative easing.

Ensuring the Free Competition of Currency and U.S. Monetary System Protection by Exempting Gold and Silver Bullion from the Sales Tax.

This bill authorizes the city of Vicksburg to provide $100,000 annually to a nonprofit so Dr. Jane Ellen McAllister's relatives can purchase and transform her home into an African American museum. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds - at any level of government - should not be used to fund private museums. The private sector, through charitable endeavors, is best equipped to direct funding to the groups and initiatives which are most needed and beneficial to communities.

Forcing Taxpayers (Instead of the Private Sector) to Provide $500,000 so Relatives of Dr. Jane Ellen McAllister can Purchase and Transform Her Home Into an African American Museum.

This bill appropriates $1.2 million to the Department of Agriculture and Commerce for the Dixie National Livestock Show for prizes, judges, and other costs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to force taxpayers to fund livestock shows. Such activities and events should be funded entirely through the private sector, not through crony government central planning initiatives. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful Spending by Forcing Taxpayers to Spend $1.2 Million for the "Dixie National Livestock Show".

This bill appropriates over $150 million to the Department of Employment Security and Office of Workforce Development, including the hiring of 50 additional government employees to further expand the state's "Career Coaching Program." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further expands the size and role of government beyond its core and necessary duties, and there are already numerous private companies offering career coaching and recruitment. As is nearly always the case, the private sector - not greater government bureaucracy - is best equipped to provide these services. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Ballooning Spending to Over $150 Million for Unnecessary Initiatives within the Department of Employment Security and Workforce Development.

This bill authorizes George County to increase the sales tax rate from 2% to 3% on hotels and impose an additional 1% tax on all restaurant sales. The revenue will fund a sports and recreation facility. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector and free market - not government - to determine the need for sports and rec facilities and obtain the necessary financing. Taxpayers and businesses should not financially suffer to advance government central planning schemes such as this measure. Unfortunately, this bill represents just one of dozens of crony local tax and spend measures passed by lawmakers this past session.

ILA

Percy W. Watson