On Tuesday, January 5 the Mississippi State Legislature began its 133rd legislative session. The first order of business was to adopt the new state flag that was approved by more than seventy percent of voters on the November ballot.

 

Many of us know that the way this new flag was adopted was in no way inclusive, right or fair. Rules were broken and the will of the people was ignored while legislators were threatened and coerced.

 

But more than 70 percent of the people voted to adopt this flag and move on to other issues.

 

The remainder of the first week of this session saw very little activity as legislators finalized bills and prepared for the deadline to submit legislation for consideration. Once this deadline has been reached, committees will begin meeting to consider the merits of each bill.

 

Next Wednesday, January 13, is the deadline to request legislation, and Monday, January 18, is the deadline for filing bills. More than 190 House bills have already been filed and referred to committees.

 

As our nation enters a time where our democracy is under attack and our newly elected federal government is marching us directly into socialism. It is imperative that the citizens of Mississippi elect local and state leaders who are willing to fight.

 

Due to COVID-19, visitors to the Capitol are limited this year. All guided tours have been suspended, and the Capitol Gift Shop is closed. However, Mississippians are allowed to visit the Capitol as long as they adhere to the proper guidelines.