SUMMARY: A new analysis by the American Society of Civil Engineers reveals that Mississippi’s infrastructure has improved over the last four years, increasing its score from a D- in 2020 to a C- in 2024, matching the national average. The report evaluates twelve infrastructure categories, with the state’s railway system receiving a B, while drinking water and roads scored a D-. Jennifer Sloan Ziegler, chair of the report, emphasized that many systems are aging and require rehabilitation. Investment in infrastructure is linked to job creation and economic growth, highlighting the need for continued attention to infrastructure maintenance in Mississippi.

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SUMMARY: Mississippi’s budget for the year starting July 1 is projected to grow by less than 1%, with an estimated $7.6 billion in the general fund. This is slower growth compared to previous years, due to flat sales tax collections and a drop in corporate income tax revenues. While income tax and insurance premium tax collections rose, the state’s economic outlook is more conservative. Governor Tate Reeves advocates for phasing out the income tax, while Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann favors reducing grocery sales tax. Lawmakers will finalize budget recommendations in December, with debates set for the 2024 legislative session.

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SUMMARY: Jackson, Mississippi’s Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens II, and City Councilman Aaron Banks were indicted on charges including conspiracy to commit bribery and money laundering as part of an FBI sting operation. The indictments allege that between October 2023 and May 2024, these officials accepted bribes from undercover agents posing as developers. Lumumba denied the allegations, calling the indictment a “political prosecution,” and vowed to fight the charges. Owens and Banks also pleaded not guilty, asserting that the investigation was flawed and that their statements were taken out of context.

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