JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The 2025 Mississippi Legislative Session is underway, with tax reform and other key issues dominating the agenda.

Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) said his top priority is the full elimination of the state income tax, and he touted that policy on social media on Tuesday, January 7. House Speaker Jason White (R-Miss.) essentially backs income tax elimination and has outlined a gradual phase-out strategy.

Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann (R-Miss.) is taking a different approach. He hopes to reduce the income tax incrementally to a flat 3% by 2030.

Leaders are also addressing grocery sales tax reductions. Hosemann is advocating for a phased 50% cut. Other proposals include dropping the tax from 7% to 5% immediately.

Medicaid expansion remains a contentious topic. White has expressed strong opposition to expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, but Hosemann has called for further discussions on the matter, potentially exploring alternative healthcare solutions.

Infrastructure improvement also remains a priority. Lawmakers are expected to address road and bridge repairs, following years of underfunded projects. Both White and Hosemann agree that investing in infrastructure is critical to Mississippi’s economic future.

Education funding remains a major issues. Both House and Senate leaders have discussed the need for increased investment in K-12 schools, particularly to address teacher pay and school safety. Lawmakers may also consider new proposals aimed at expanding school voucher programs or charter schools.

State Auditor Shad White (R-Miss.) announced on Tuesday that he will request $1 million less than last year from the state’s general fund from the state legislature for the Office of the State Auditor.

“I have repeatedly encouraged other state agencies to save money when possible and operate more like a family, cutting fat and storing money for the future,” said Auditor White. “My team and I have done exactly that over the last six years in the State Auditor’s office, and after careful review, it has given us the ability to return money to the taxpayers with no change to our capabilities as an office.”

White said he hoped the Legislature would use the additional $1 million in general funds to put money into teacher salaries, salaries for law enforcement officers, or a tax cut for taxpayers.