Rep. Celeste Hurst

Maddy summaryHB 1577 revises Mississippi's unemployment compensation benefit duration based on the state's three-month average unemployment rate. It sets maximum benefit weeks at 12 (for ≤5% unemployment), 16 (5-7%), or 20 (over 8.5%). The bill directly affects Mississippi residents filing for unemployment benefits, as their benefit length would adjust monthly based on the state's reported rate. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and was never enacted, so these changes would not take effect. It does not alter weekly benefit amounts, which are governed by a separate section of the code.

Maddy summaryHB 1583 requires that special election candidates in Mississippi must declare their political party affiliation (if any) to election officials, and this affiliation must be displayed on the official ballot. This applies specifically to candidates running in special elections to fill vacancies, such as those in state legislative seats. The bill amends election code sections to mandate that candidates provide this declaration in writing, ensuring voters see the candidate's party affiliation when casting ballots for these special races. The policy change directly affects special election candidates and voters by increasing transparency about candidates' party ties.

Maddy summaryHB 1582 would have created Mississippi's False Claims Act, prohibiting individuals or entities from knowingly submitting false claims for payment to state agencies or their contractors. It would have required state agencies to investigate suspected fraud and imposed penalties including triple damages, $5,000-$10,000 per violation, and attorney fees for violators. The bill included a "qui tam" provision allowing private citizens to file lawsuits on behalf of the state and receive a portion of recovered funds if they disclose fraud. However, the bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and was never enacted into law.

Maddy summaryHB 1119 (the "Representative Andy Stepp Pharmacy Benefit Prompt Pay Act") requires pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to reimburse pharmacies at least the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) for drugs plus a standard dispensing fee, ensuring pharmacies are paid fairly for medications. It prohibits PBMs from charging patients more than the amount retained by the pharmacy and bans PBMs from penalizing patients for choosing specific pharmacies or favoring certain pharmacies in networks. The bill also mandates clear appeal processes for pharmacies disputing low reimbursements and prohibits PBMs from retaliating against pharmacies for exercising rights under the law. These provisions directly affect PBMs, pharmacies, and patients in Mississippi by setting fair reimbursement standards and protecting patient choice.

Maddy summaryHB 1584 would allow registered political parties in Mississippi to have two credentialed poll watchers present at polling places during nonpartisan elections (where no candidates are running for office). Currently, only candidates on the ballot have this right; the bill would extend it to any registered party. Watchers must be authorized in writing by the party and cannot interfere with voting (e.g., no voter contact or handling ballots), though they may observe and challenge voter qualifications. The bill died in committee in February 2025 and never became law.

Maddy summaryThis bill would allow Rankin County, Mississippi, along with its municipalities and existing drainage districts, to create a new Rankin County Stormwater Management Agency to handle flood and drainage issues. The agency would be formed through a local ordinance or resolution and could optionally be approved by voters via an indirect referendum. Once established, the agency's board of commissioners must develop a comprehensive stormwater management plan within 24 months and collect annual utility fees from landowners, which can be appealed to the county Board of Supervisors.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a procedural measure that temporarily suspends standard deadlines to allow the Mississippi legislature to draft and consider a new law called the "Safer Act." The proposed law would directly affect public schools and universities by requiring them to provide exclusive male or female restrooms, single-occupancy changing facilities, and single-occupancy student housing. It also mandates that single-sex social fraternities and sororities designate their housing according to these definitions and establishes rules for how individuals may enter these spaces. Additionally, the act defines the terms male, female, and sex, and authorizes the Attorney General to take legal action if the regulations are violated.

Maddy summaryThis resolution expresses the Mississippi House of Representatives' support for Texas Governor Greg Abbott's efforts to address border security. The text frames the situation as an invasion and calls for the transport of undocumented individuals back across the border to Mexico. It does not create any new laws or alter federal policy but serves as a symbolic statement of solidarity with Texas. The bill was referred to a committee and did not advance further.