SUMMARY: Mississippi lawmakers approved Senate Bill 2573, which would create a standalone Department of Tourism, separating it from the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA). However, due to a budget impasse and no appropriations bill, Gov. Tate Reeves vetoed the bill. He expressed concerns about the lack of funding details for both MDA and the new tourism agency. While recognizing the importance of tourism, Reeves warned that without proper funding, it would be irresponsible to weaken MDA or set up the new department to fail. Mississippi’s tourism industry reached record numbers in 2023, drawing 43.7 million visitors and generating $17.5 billion.

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SUMMARY: Following a federal panel’s order, Mississippi’s Board of Election Commissioners proposed new Senate districts in DeSoto County to address the NAACP’s concerns about Black voting dilution. The plan, backed by Republican officials, designates Senate District 2 as a majority-minority district but reduces Black representation in District 11. The NAACP is likely to challenge the proposal, as it seeks guarantees for Black voter representation. New election timelines will take effect if approved, with deadlines set for candidate qualifying and absentee voting. Should the proposal fail, judges may redraw the districts themselves and implement the revised election schedule.

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SUMMARY: William Carey University has promoted Jessica Garriga to head women’s basketball coach after a decade as an assistant. She succeeds Tracy English, who will focus on his role as athletic director following a perfect 2024-25 season. Garriga, a former player at William Carey, has previously helped the team achieve two conference championships. She was recently honored as the NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year. Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Garriga aims to continue the program’s success. She also serves as an assistant athletic director and will lead the Crusaders as they begin the 2025-26 season in November.

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