Legislative Update 16

May 04, 2008

Dear Friends,

The Bacot/McCarty Foundation and the DREAM Program both had golf tournaments scheduled for Saturday. Despite a torrential downpour, both organizations raised big money for important causes. Todd Trenchard, Troy Trigg and hundreds of volunteers and participants deserve congratulations for the important work they did on behalf of our community.

Governor Barbour Signs Bill to Fill State’s Rainy Day Fund

On Tuesday, Governor Barbour signed a bill that will fully fund Mississippi’s “Rainy Day Fund,” the special state savings account designed to protect taxpayers and governmental agencies in case of an economic downturn.

The fund will contain $378 million as of June 30. After signing the bill, Governor Barbour said, “In four budget cycles and working together with the Legislature, Mississippi has a balanced budget and has rebuilt its Rainy Day Fund for the amount called for by law.”

Tax Study Commission Invites Public Comment

The Tax Study Commission appointed by Governor Barbour has announced that individuals and interest groups will have an opportunity to weigh in on Mississippi’s taxation policies on May 19. The forum will take place at the Mississippi Telcom Center from 10 until 2.

Interested speakers may e-mail taxstudy@governor.state.ms.us or call 601-359-3150 by May 16 to reserve time. Space will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. Written statements will also be accepted.

Medicaid Advisory Panel Named

Seven hospital administrators have been named to a Medicaid Hospital Advisory Committee. The Committee has been asked to provide advice and assistance to the Division of Medicaid regarding matters affecting hospitals participating in the Medicaid program. Among the administrators appointed to the committee was Singing River Hospital’s CEO, Chris Anderson.

How to Contact Me

If you have any questions or concerns, I invite you to call me on my cell phone at 228-326-7649 or e-mail me at bjones@house.ms.gov. Please feel free to forward this report to folks in our district and let me know if I need to add someone to my list.

I will also be posting my updates and House related news on my campaign website at www.electbrandonjones.com.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Brandon