Miss. Republicans celebrate wins
Published 11:34 pm Friday, May 4, 2012
JACKSON (AP) — Mississippi Republicans are celebrating a variety of legislative victories at the end of the 2012 session, including new abortion restrictions and an election district map that favors their party.
The House and Senate adjourned Thursday afternoon after approving appointments of state officials and tying up a few loose ends.
After adjournment, Speaker Philip Gunn and Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves quickly highlighted the passage of key items on the Republican agenda.
“This list of accomplishments really shows that Republicans stayed together,” Gunn said.
Lawmakers approved legislation establishing new regulations that could close Mississippi’s lone abortion clinic, voted to limit the attorney general’s power and created a districting map that favors Republicans. They also passed a bill aimed at reducing the sexual abuse of minors by increasing reporting requirements of suspected misconduct.
Lawmakers passed a $5.6 billion budget, but failed to agree on a bond package that would have routed money to public construction projects around the state. Leaders in the House had pushed a bond package of $250 million or more, while Reeves sought one less than half that size. Reeves said he was making good on a campaign promise.
“I have very strong beliefs as it relates to the state becoming more fiscally responsible,” Reeves said. “We also weren’t willing to agree to a Christmas tree approach.”
An immigration bill that was met with widespread opposition from economic, religious and law enforcement organizations died in a Senate committee. Republicans also failed to push through a bill to expand charter schools.
Rep. George Flaggs, D-Vicksburg, said the transition to Republican leadership was relatively smooth.
“I understand that in this process you have to learn to compromise,” Flaggs said.
Funding for education was an issue that had both Democratic and Republican support.
“Not every single issue is a Republican or Democrat issue,” said Sen. Hob Bryan, D-Amory. “The people of this state elected all 52 of us and they expect us to work together.”
Gov. Phil Bryant said he was pleased with House and Senate leadership.
“The 2012 legislative session will be remembered as one of the most business-friendly sessions in Mississippi’s history,” Bryant said in a statement.