Hello, my name is Gene Newman and I am thankful for the opportunity to represent the voters of Mississippi House of Representative District 61. As a Pearl school graduate who has lived in Pearl for most of my life, I have been a dedicated community leader committed to bringing a strong voice to the area. If you have a legislative issue or any issue or problem dealing with a state agency, please contact me and I will do my best to help.
I will post House updates below and on the @genenewman61 Facebook page.
Here are the House Committees that I serve on:
Here is a link to bills that I have sponsored or cosponsored in the 2025 session: Legislation introduced by Representative Gene Newman
Thank you!
- Gene
You can call or text me at: 601-316-2491
You can email me at gene@genenewman.ms
RULES: If you put me in a group text or a chain email - I will block you.
2025 Mississippi Legislative Session
Week of March 3, 2025
The Mississippi House convened at 4:00 PM on Monday, marking the ninth week of the legislative session. A key March 4 deadline was met, requiring committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments from the opposite chamber.
House Resolution 81 honors the late Robert George Clark, Jr., recognizing his historic achievement as the first African American elected to the Mississippi Legislature in the 20th century. The resolution commemorates his leadership as Speaker Pro Tempore, his dedication to education, civil rights, and public service, and extends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. His legacy continues through his son, Representative Bryant Clark, who currently serves in the House.
On Wednesday, the House welcomed the award-winning Holmes County Central Singers, who performed the National Anthem. Founded in 2018 by Mr. Pierrdro Gallion, the choir has earned top ratings and performed at Carnegie Hall in April 2023.
The House passed several Senate Bill this week, including:
- JR 202 – Adjusts Mississippi State Senate districts in response to a federal court ruling, ensuring compliance with the Voting Rights Act while minimizing disruptions.
- SB 2424 – Establishes the Entertainment Industry and Workforce Development Task Force to evaluate polices and propose strategies for growing Mississippi’s creative economy, with recommendations due by December 1, 2025
- SB 2280 – requires hunters to obtain a wild turkey stamp, with exemptions for minors, seniors, and disabled individuals. Proceeds will support conservation and research efforts. The law takes effect on July 1, 2025.
- SB 2276 – Extends hunting seasons for deer, bobwhite quail, wild turkey, squirrels, rabbits, and fur-bearing animals. If the open season ends on a Friday, it will now extend until 30 minutes after sunset on the following Sunday.
- SB 3055 – Appropriates funds for the Mississippi Department of Tourism for fiscal year 2025-2026, contingent on the passage of SB 2573, which establishes the department.
The House faces a March 12 deadline for original floor action on general bills and constitutional amendments originating in the other chamber.
The House will reconvene on Monday at 2:00 PM.
Week of February 24, 2025
The Mississippi House of Representatives convened at 4:00 PM on Monday for its scheduled legislative session, addressing key legislative matters and recognizing distinguished individuals and institutions. Top of Form
Throughout the week, the House honored Alcorn State University for its legacy of academic excellence and its significant impact on higher education Mississippi. Additionally, blues musician Jimmy “Duck” Holmes was recognized for his contributions to the state’s rich cultural and musical heritage.
The House also commemorated the 155th anniversary of Hiram Revels’ swearing-in honoring his legacy as the first African American to serve in the United States Congress.
Among the ley legislative actions of the week, HB 1879, known as the “City of Jackson Revitalization Act,” failed to pass on the House floor. The bill sought to provide tax incentives and funding for the development of blighted properties in Jackson, Mississippi, but did not gain the necessary support.
Meanwhile, the House is now ahead of schedule and successfully met the February 26 deadline for all appropriations and revenue bills, which now advance to the Senate for further consideration.
Looking ahead, the House faces a critical deadline on March 4 for committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments originating in the opposite chamber.
The House is set to reconvene Monday at 4 PM.
Week of February 17, 2025
The Mississippi House of Representatives convened at 4:00 PM on Monday, marking the start of the legislative week. With no urgent deadlines on the calendar, floor activity remained relatively light. The Capitol welcomed numerous visitors from across the state throughout the week.
A key legislative action occurred on Tuesday when the House passed SB 2145, which authorizes licensed wine manufacturers, both within and outside Mississippi, to sell and ship wine directly to residents. The bill establishes regulatory requirements, including record-keeping, reporting, and taxation provisions. It limits individuals to receiving a maximum of twelve nine-liter cases per year. Additionally, wines already distributed through Mississippi wholesalers may not be sold directly, except for highly allocated items. Shipments must be clear labeled, signed for by an individual 21 years or older, and designated for personal consumption only. A portion of the taxes collected from direct shipments will be allocated to the state’s Mental Health Programs Fund.
Additionally, the House passed House Resolution 46, which commends the Poplarville High School Football team on winning its first-ever MHSAA Class 4A State Championship.
The appropriations process is officially underway, and all agency budgets have been reviewed and successfully passed through the necessary approvals.
Looking ahead, the House faces an upcoming deadline on Monday, February 24, for submitting requests to draft appropriation and revenue bills. Another key deadline is set for Wednesday, February 26, for floor action on appropriation and revenue bills originating in the House.
The House is set to reconvene Monday at 4:00 PM.
Week of February 10, 2025
The House convened at 2:00 PM on Monday, beginning with a moment of recognition to honor the life and service of Officer Troy Floyd of the Summit Police Department in Lincoln County. A resolution was adopted to commemorate his passing.
Members also recognized the Jackson State University football team for securing the 2024 HBCU national championship.
The House engaged in a busy week of legislative activity, advancing numerous bills ahead of critical deadlines. Several measures have now been sent to the Senate for further consideration.
HB 849 permits Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to practice independently after completing 8,000 clinical hours, eliminating the requirement for physician collaboration. The bill also establishes licensure for the Anesthesiologist Assistants under physician collaboration. The bill modifies the composition of the Mississippi Board of Nursing.
HB 1432 expands charter school eligibility in certain districts, allows contract amendments for mergers without school closures, and prohibits authorizers from retaining per-pupil funding. Additionally, it enhances oversight, updates enrollment and accountability regulations, and grants school a two-year deferral for opening if necessary.
HB 928 mandates that hospitals with emergency departments have personnel available at all times to conduct forensic examinations for sexual assault victims and maintain an adequate supply of evidence collection kits. It also requires proper storage of these kits in designated refrigeration units and permits hospitals to contract forensic nurses for examinations.
Thursdays, February 13, marked the deadline for original floor action on general bills and constitutional amendments originating in the House.
Looking ahead, the next major deadline is Monday, February 26, for original floor action on Appropriation and Revenue Bills originating in own house.
The House is scheduled to reconvene on Monday at 4:00 PM.
Week of February 3, 2025
The Mississippi House of Representatives convened at 4:00 PM on Monday, where the Mississippi Board of Nursing honored Representatives Rickey Thompson, Donnie Scoggin, and Becky Currie with a plaque for their legislative contributions.
On Tuesday, February 4, committees faced a key deadline to report general bills and constitutional amendments, though no floor action occurred. Wednesday, February 5th, began floor action and several key pieces of legislation were passed.
HB 1302 was introduced and passed, legalizing online sports betting and race book wagering in the state. Just for the record, I do not vote for gambling bills. Gambling using people weaknesses and I simply don't believe that is the right way to run government.
HB 1193, prohibiting public schools, state-accredited nonpublic schools, and public colleges from implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs or requiring diversity statements in hiring and admissions, was passed.
HB 1435 streamlines Mississippi’s student transfer process by eliminating the requirement for a student’s home district to approve transfers, leaving the decision solely to the receiving district. I did not vote for HB 1435. I believe that we already have school choice. If someone wants to send their child to a different school, they can choose to move to that community and support that community and those schools. I will not support any bill that allows a child to go from district to district.
A joint resolution was passed to amend the House district map following a federal court ruling on Voting Rights Act violations. The revisions affect House Districts 16, 22, 36, 39, and 41 to ensure compliance while minimizing disruption.
HB 1544 adjusts the number of judges and residency requirements for several circuit and chancery court districts, ensuring proper judicial representation and accommodating district needs.
The House will reconvene Monday at 2:00 PM.
Week of January 27, 2025
The fourth week of the 2025 Legislative Session commenced on Monday, January 27, at 4:00 Pm, as the House reconvened to continue legislative proceedings.
During the session, a resolution was adopted to schedule the annual State of the State Address by Governor Tate Reeves for Wednesday, January 29. The address would be delivered from the south steps of the Capitol, where the Governor will outline key policy priorities and legislative objectives for the upcoming year.
The House recently passed several bills, including HB 287, designating the sweet potato as the official state vegetable. HB 922 raises capital expenditure thresholds for Certificate of Need (CON) requirements, easing regulations. HB 1063 provides state employees with eight weeks of fully paid leave for primary caregivers and two weeks for secondary caregivers after the birth or adoption of a child. These measures now move to the Senate for consideration.
On Thursday, the House observed a moment of silence to honor the 64 passengers who tragically lost their lives in the plane crash at Reagan National Airport.
Looking ahead, key legislative deadlines are approaching. Tuesday, February 4, marks the deadline for committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments originating in their respective chambers. Thursday, February 13, is the final day for original floor action on general bills and constitutional amendments introduced in their respective chambers.
The House is set to reconvene at 4:00 PM on Monday.
Week of January 20, 2025
The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session marked a relatively lighter pace of floor activity as committees continue to meet and draft bills. Early in the session, much of the focus remains on refining and preparing legislative proposals for consideration.
Monday, January 20, was the deadline for introducing general bills and constitutional amendments. Committees are now fully engaged, holding meetings and hearings to review and discuss proposed legislation. This week, several bills were taken up, passed, and will now head to the Senate for further consideration and potential action.
Looking ahead, Tuesday, February 4, is the deadline for committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments originating in their respective houses. The House is set to reconvene on Monday at 4 PM as the session moves forward with its legislative agenda.
Week of January 13, 2025
On Monday, January 13, the House convened at 4 PM the House passed a resolution from the Committee on Rules to commemorate the 100th birthdays of cultural icons B.B. King and Medgar Evers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to music and American culture.
Wednesday, January 15, was the deadline for submitting requests to draft general bills and constitutional amendments.
A notable development was the introduction and passage of House Bill 1, the “Build Up Mississippi Act” by Ways and Means Chairman, Trey Lamar. The bill aims to eliminate state income tax and overhaul the state’s tax structure, making it a key legislative priority for the session.
HB1 proposes several significant changes including a 1.5% local sales tax starting in 2026, a reduction in grocery sales tax to 2.5% by 2036, and a 5% motor fuels tax to fund road and infrastructure projects.
Additionally, the act outlines the phased elimination of state income tax for or incomes over $10,000 by 2037, the reallocation of lottery proceeds to PERS, and the establishment of advisory boards to oversee transportation and budget reforms. Implementation of these provisions is scheduled to begin in 2025 with staggered timelines.
Looking ahead, Monday, January 20, is the deadline for introducing general bills and constitutional amendments. The House is scheduled to reconvene at 4:00 PM on the same day.
House Bill 1: 2025 House Bill 1
Week of January 6th, 2025
The Mississippi Legislature officially began its 2025 session on January 7, marking the second session of the current four-year term. In accordance with the state constitution, the session will last 90 days. The opening ceremonies were steeped in tradition and solemnity, with Boy Scout Troop 27 from First Presbyterian Church in Corinth, Mississippi, presenting the colors and leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Speaker Jason White’s pastor, Col. Ed McDaniel of West Baptist Church, offered the opening prayer, while Bolie Stoles of the Lauderdale Sheriff’s Department and Faith Eakes of Cross Mountain Ministries performed a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem.
When session commenced, The House addressed the Governor’s five vetoes from the 2024 session. Speaker Jason White then appointed committees to inform the Governor and the Senate that the House is organized and ready to proceed with the agenda for the 2025 session. A moment of silence was observed to honor the late Representatives Andy Stepp and Charles Young Jr., both of whom passed away recently. Special elections for their vacant seats have been scheduled for March 25.
Members are scheduled to reconvene at 4:00 PM on Monday, January 13.
House members took the oath of office on the first day before the election of Speaker of the House and Speaker Pro Tempore. As part of the House Rules, both positions and the House Clerk are elected by the members and are sworn into office on the first day of session. Representative Jason White (R – West) was elected Speaker of the House after previously serving as Speaker Pro Tempore. Former Local and Private Chairman Manly Barton (R – Moss Point) was chosen as Speaker Pro Tempore. Andrew Ketchings was re-elected as House Clerk for his fourth term.
Members also had to elect fellow representatives to serve on both the Management and Rules committees. All members split into the four Mississippi congressional districts and nominate members to serve on these committees. Both committees are comprised of two members from each of the congressional districts, as well as the Speaker and the Pro Tempore.
Speaker Jason White announced several new House committees, including a major change to Appropriations. There will be four new standing committees within Appropriations (Appropriations B, Appropriations C, Appropriations D and Appropriations E), and these will each be comprised of eight members from the main Appropriations Committee. The Chairman of Appropriations will also serve as an ex officio voting member of the four committees. Each committee will be tasked with a portion of the state budget. Other new committees include Business and Commerce, Housing and State Affairs.
Six statewide elected officials were sworn into office by Chief Justice Michael Randolph before a joint session of the House and Senate on Thursday, January 4. The joint session also re-elected Steven Parks as state librarian.
The inauguration ceremony of Governor Tate Reeves is scheduled for next Tuesday, January 9 at 10:30 a.m. before a joint session of the House and Senate.
Early Wednesday morning, officials received a bomb threat to the Capitol, and the building was evacuated. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety conducted a thorough sweep of the premises and gave the all-clear around 11 a.m. A similar threat was made on Thursday morning to the Capitol, Mississippi Supreme Court and some Hinds County buildings. Mississippi was one of several states that received a bomb threat, and the FBI announced these were all hoaxes.
The Capitol was overflowing with guests this week due to inaugurations. Visitors to the Capitol are always welcome to meet with their legislators and witness the legislative process.
Being Sworn in January 2, 2024