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Rep. Noah Sanford
The 2020 legislative session was the longest in the books, as the legislature had to return to Jackson multiple times to deal with COVID-related funds from the federal government. The 2021 session, too, seems to be one for the history books. Within a few weeks of gaveling in, a few legislators tested positive for COVID-19.
In an effort to avoid a largescale spread like the one in 2020 which saw multiple lawmakers hospitalized, the Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor agreed to have committee hearings—which oftentimes are held in cramped committee rooms—held virtually, over Zoom. So, for the last few weeks, bills have been discussed via video conferencing which, of course, is a first for the state legislature. It has been an unusual process, for sure, but it has largely worked out well and has limited the virus’ spread in the House of Representatives.
Several bills of importance have passed out of House including Bill 852, which would fund a pay raise for teachers and teacher assistants. House Bills 5 and 6 would require IHL (the board that oversees universities) to prescribe policies regarding hazing and increase the penalties therefor. House Bill 797 would remove the statute of limitations for all sexual battery crimes; presently, only some sexual battery crimes are subject to the statute of limitations, leaving some victims with no recourse. Approximately 150 or 200 others will be passed out of committee and sent to the House floor for debate.
When bills are sent to the House floor for debate, the legislature will return in person. Members will be stretched out in large rooms around the Capitol instead of crowded on the House floor and will vote in small groups to avoid close contact.
I appreciate the opportunity to serve. Please contact me if I can be of assistance.
Rep. Noah Sanford represents parts of Covington, Simpson, and Jefferson Davis Counties in the Mississippi House of Representatives. He can be reached at 601-765-4122 or NSanford@house.ms.gov.
MageeNews.com is an online news source covering Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi.
