Mississippi State Legislature Gavels in 2026 General Session – Week 1 Update

The 2026 Regular Session of the Mississippi Legislature officially convened at noon on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, in Jackson, and lawmakers are slated to work through Sine Die on April 5. This Session follows a full slate of preparatory committee work and leadership announcements aimed at addressing key policy issues for the state.

One of the most prominent focal points for this Session is education reform, with both legislative leaders and statewide media highlighting this priority. Also, the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) remains a pressing issue for lawmakers entering 2026.

Legislators are also expected to consider proposals aimed at revamping the way Mississippi’s universities are funded. While details are still taking shape, discussions have highlighted potential shifts in how institutions receive state dollars, balancing workforce needs with institutional autonomy. This will be an important conversation for rural extension services and research partnerships that support Mississippi agriculture.

Perhaps the most consequential task this session will be to pass the state budget for Fiscal Year 2027, which begins July 1, 2026. The legislature’s budget will determine spending on rural infrastructure, education, agriculture programs, and economic development, among others. The Mississippi Legislative Budget Office is meetings with lawmakers and providing revenue forecasts to inform lawmakers’ work.

We encourage all farmers and ranchers to stay engaged with their local legislators, monitor bill activity, and connect with agricultural associations and Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation updates throughout the 2026 Legislative Session.

In addition to this weekly update, you can monitor all legislative proceedings at legislature.ms.gov and watch proceedings live at youtube.com/c/MississippiLegislature/featured.