MS House Floor - 16 February, 2026; 4:00 PM [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a prayer led by Pastor Tonya H. Ware, who was introduced by Representative Nelson. Pastor Ware is the state director for Ready Nation Mississippi and focuses on policies that support family stability, maternal health, and early childhood education. She emphasized the importance of strong families for community strength. After the prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The quorum was confirmed, and the reading of the journal was dispensed with. There were no reports from select committees, and the introduction of bills was handled without objection. Representative Gibbs acknowledged Jack and Jill Day at the Capitol, welcoming its members. The House then moved to the calendar, where a motion to table House Bill 1660 was passed without opposition. The clerk announced upcoming meetings for various appropriations committees and a hearing on the ABC warehouse. Members made several announcements, including a reception for the Mississippi Railroad Association, a reminder for a Capital Prayer Group meeting, and a reception hosted by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. Several members requested to adjourn in memory of individuals, including Senator Juan Barnett, who suffered a stroke, and others who had recently passed away. Representative Sanders introduced his grandson, who would be serving as a page. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn until 2 p.m. the following day, which was passed unanimously.