Our vision is clear: We envision a Mississippi where we all thrive. In this future, every resident has access to the tools and resources needed to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. As such, One Voice’s 2025 Legislative Priorities pave the way for a just future by advocating for policies that promote social and economic justice, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to empowering communities to engage in the issues most impacting their lives. Together, we can break down barriers and build a state that reflects our shared values of equity, opportunity, and inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind and that our goal of creating a better future for Mississippi is realized.
Our vision is clear: We envision a Mississippi where we all thrive. In this future, every resident has access to the tools and resources needed to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. As such, One Voice’s 2025 Legislative Priorities pave the way for a just future by advocating for policies that promote social and economic justice, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to empowering communities to engage in the issues most impacting their lives. Together, we can break down barriers and build a state that reflects our shared values of equity, opportunity, and inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind and that our goal of creating a better future for Mississippi is realized.
Guided by principles of self-determination, One Voice ensures historically silenced communities have representation and influence in spaces of power.
We envision a Mississippi where we all THRIVE.
ONE VILLAGE. ONE VISION. ONE VOICE.
The Mississippi legislative session is a critical time when laws, policies, and budgets that impact every aspect of life in the state are decided. It’s not just for politicians to make decisions—it’s an opportunity for communities to demand accountability, push for equity, and advocate for meaningful change.
We envision a Mississippi where every child, no matter their ZIP code, race, or income level, attends a fully funded school that is equipped with the resources and support needed to provide a high-quality, well-rounded education.
We envision a Mississippi where the political process is accessible to all, allowing every individual to have their voice heard and counted.
We envision a Mississippi where every resident has access to clean, renewable energy sources, ensuring an equitable distribution of resources that leads to a sustainable future for all.
We envision a Mississippi where equitable systems reduce poverty and encourage economic mobility, enabling families to support one another and build stronger, more resilient communities.
We envision a Mississippi where every child, no matter their ZIP code, race, or income level, attends a fully funded school that is equipped with the resources and support needed to provide a high-quality, well-rounded education.
Our vision is rooted in the belief that equitable access to quality education is a fundamental right for every child, regardless of their circumstances. We recognize that education is the key to unlocking potential and breaking the cycle of poverty, and it is essential for creating a brighter future for all Mississippians.
Expand quality state-funded pre-K education programs: To ensure that every child in Mississippi has a strong start, the state must invest in expanding quality early Pre-K programs. Despite being one of only five states to meet all ten quality benchmarks established by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). 1 Only 15% of four-year-olds currently have access to state-funded Pre-K programs.2 Mississippi ranks 35th in access, with an average investment of just $3,281 per child enrolled in preschool.3 Expanding early Pre-K will not only increase kindergarten readiness for young children but also provide much-needed financial support for families with young children, advancing safe, reliable, high-quality childcare options throughout the state.
Fully fund the Mississippi School Funding Formula: During the 2024 Mississippi Legislative Session, lawmakers passed a new school funding formula, named the Mississippi School Funding Formula, after 27 years of chronically underfunding the Mississippi Adequate Education Program by over $3.5 billion.4 Even with increased funding for the state’s public schools though, historic patterns of underfunding and continued public school divestment raise concerns that schools may still face financial shortfalls, especially since the Mississippi Supreme Court ruled that fully funding the previous formula was not mandatory.5
To provide Mississippi students with the resources they need to succeed, greater investments in public education are crucial. As of 2023, the state spent $11,932 per pupil, ranking 45th out of 51 states in per-pupil spending, which is approximately $4,000 less than the national average of $15,114.6 This funding gap directly affects educational quality. Mississippi must prioritize strong, equitable funding to ensure all students receive the education they need and deserve.
Keep public dollars in public schools: Public tax dollars are essential for funding public schools, ensuring that every child receives a quality education and that schools have the resources they need to thrive. However, when these funds are diverted to private institutions with little to no oversight, it undermines a public education system that serves 90% of Mississippi students.7
For example, currently, public school funds are diverted through The Children’s Promise Act, allowing individuals or corporations to donate to certified private schools and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for up to 50% of their state tax liability.8 Under this law, a total of $9 million in tax credit money can be diverted to private schools annually with minimal oversight.9
Lawmakers must protect public education funds by preventing their diversion to charter schools or voucher programs and restoring any funds already diverted. Clear policies should prohibit using public tax dollars for private or for-profit schools, ensuring resources stay focused on strengthening public education. Prioritizing these measures will help all Mississippi students, especially those in underfunded districts, receive the quality education they deserve.
Increase access and affordability in our higher education system: College has long been viewed as a pathway to prosperity, yet funding for public higher education in Mississippi has faced significant cuts, putting that promise at risk. Over the last decade, state funding per student has decreased by almost 34%, forcing universities to rely more heavily on tuition revenue, which has now reached an average of $8,833 annually.10 This increase places a substantial financial burden on students, especially those from low- and middle-income backgrounds.11 To counter these challenges, lawmakers must prioritize higher education funding by restoring state support and expanding financial aid, ensuring every student has a chance to pursue their dreams and contribute to a vibrant, growing economy.
End corporal punishment in schools: Corporal punishment is a form of discipline in which an adult inflicts pain on a child in response to behavior deemed unacceptable, including actions like spanking, paddling, confinement, excessive exercise, and enforced postures for long periods. In Mississippi, this practice remains legal, with the state being one of 17 in the U.S. that still permits it in public schools.12
Data from the Mississippi Department of Education for the 2021-22 school year shows nearly 60% of corporal punishment instances were administered to Black students, though they comprised only 47% of K-12 enrollment, while 35% involved white students, who made up 43% of enrollment. 13 To foster a healthier and more equitable learning environment, Mississippi should eliminate corporal punishment and shift toward restorative practices that prioritize conflict resolution and emotional well-being.
Expand community schools: Student success is influenced by both in-school factors and outside circumstances. Community schools enhance educational equity by tackling systemic barriers that affect access and opportunities, particularly for students from marginalized backgrounds. They focus on critical challenges like homelessness, lack of medical and dental services, and hunger.14 By effectively coordinating resources, community schools ensure comprehensive support without duplication of services.15
Lawmakers can promote these models by:
We envision a Mississippi where criminal justice promotes safety and dignity.
Our vision is grounded in the belief that justice should heal, not harm. We seek to transform Mississippi’s criminal justice system into one that promotes safety and dignity through fair sentencing, investment in rehabilitation, and the elimination of racial and economic inequities.
We envision a Mississippi where every resident has access to clean, renewable energy sources, ensuring an equitable distribution of resources that leads to a sustainable future for all.
Our vision is rooted in the belief that access to clean, renewable energy is a fundamental right for all . By prioritizing sustainable energy solutions, we can create a more equitable distribution of resources that not only protects the environment but also stimulates economic growth.
We envision a Mississippi where the political process is accessible to all, allowing every individual to have their voice heard and counted.
Our vision is grounded in the belief that a healthy democracy thrives when all individuals have the opportunity to engage meaningfully in the political process. It is not just about casting a ballot; it is about fostering a culture of civic engagement and accountability that empowers every citizen in Mississippi. Together, we can build a political landscape where every voice is not only heard but also valued, paving the way for a more just and equitable society.
We envision a Mississippi where equitable systems reduce poverty and encourage economic mobility, enabling families to support one another and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Our vision is rooted in the understanding that economic justice requires accountability and transparency in government spending and that wealth and opportunity should not be concentrated in the hands of a few, but rather distributed equitably among all citizens. By advocating for systems that promote economic mobility and reduce poverty we can ensure that all communities benefit from public investments and services.
Improve the state’s budget-making process to include open, inclusive budgeting: To promote greater equity and community empowerment in Mississippi’s budget process, it is essential to adopt participatory budgeting practices that enhance transparency, inclusivity, and public engagement. In 2024, lawmakers passed a $7 billion state budget.47 However, Mississippi’s budget is usually passed behind closed doors during the last weekend of the session. 47 Many lawmakers vote on the budget, often without a comprehensive understanding of how the proposed spending measures align with past budgets.49
This lack of transparency and inclusiveness disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, as decisions made behind closed doors often fail to reflect the needs and priorities of those most affected. Instead of a rushed, closed budget process, lawmakers should consider participatory budgeting. Research indicates that participatory budgeting can significantly increase community involvement and ensure that budgetary decisions align with the values and necessities of residents.50 By implementing participatory budgeting the Mississippi Legislature can foster a budget process that is not only open and accessible but also equitable, empowering communities to influence the allocation of state resources and ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the future of the state.
Strengthen the state’s income tax system: Mississippi’s tax system is critical for funding essential public services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. However, the state’s tax structure is inadequate for generating enough revenue to support these services.51 In addition, as a result of our tax system, income disparities are larger in Mississippi after state and local taxes are collected than before.
In 2022, lawmakers passed the largest tax cut in the state’s history, benefiting primarily the wealthy.52 Under House Bill 531, starting in 2026, Mississippi will implement a flat 4% income tax on earnings over $10,000.53 Once fully implemented, this will cost the state $535 million annually.54 This is in addition to the over 50 tax cuts that have drained $577 million from the state’s budget, mostly benefiting the wealthy and corporations since 2012.55 Less than 20% of all tax cut dollars will go towards families making less than $50,000.56 Also, the $25,500 tax cut the top 1% of Mississippians would get from eliminating the income tax is more money than over a third of Mississippi households make in a year.57
Still, lawmakers are considering fully eliminating the state income tax. To avoid further revenue loss, harming our state’s public services, and worsening income inequality, lawmakers should halt additional income tax cuts and maintain the current 5% tax bracket.58 They could also implement a new 6% tax on incomes over $100,000, which would raise revenue without affecting 80% of Mississippians.59
Enact an Earned Income Tax Credit: EITCs are tax credits that benefit low-to-moderate-income working families by reducing personal income tax liability based on a certain percentage of the family’s earnings.60 Ultimately, the credit provides a much-needed boost for working families who are raising children and are particularly helpful for women, Black, and other workers of color―groups that historically and disproportionately work in low-wage jobs.61
As of December 2023, 319,000 Mississippi families filed federal EITC claims for a combined total EITC amount of $961 Million.62 The average EITC amount for the state totaled $3,010.63 This amount is higher than any other state in the nation.64 Mississippi should join the thirty-one states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico that have boosted opportunity for workers through a state EITC. State EITCs are easy to administer, cost less than 2% of the state tax revenues each year, and they are specifically targeted to low-and moderate-income workers.65 If implemented, a state EITC should be refundable. Refundable credits allow taxpayers to receive a refund for the portion of the credit that exceeds their income tax bill. By adopting an EITC, Mississippi has the opportunity to foster a more inclusive economy, ensuring that working families can achieve greater financial security and well-being.
Enact a state Child Tax Credit: Child Tax Credits are designed to alleviate financial burdens, helping families make ends meet by providing crucial financial support. The federal Child Tax Credit provides up to $2,000 per eligible child (under age 17 at the end of the tax year) and includes a $500 non-refundable credit for families with qualifying non-child dependents.66
Currently, 15 states have enacted a Child Tax Credit.67 If Mississippi were to enact a Child Tax Credit, it should be refundable, meaning that families should receive a tax refund even if the credit exceeds the amount of their tax bill. A Mississippi Child Tax Credit should also be extended per child, including a young child bonus, and be eligible for all residents. It should be indexed so it does not erode over time and should be potentially advanceable/monthly.
A well-structured Child Tax Credit could drastically reduce child poverty in Mississippi, even in a state with one of the highest child poverty rates in the nation, with 27.7% of children living in poverty.68
In addition, a well-structured Child Tax Credit can stimulate state and local economies.69 Research shows that every dollar spent on the Child Tax Credit generates an estimated $1.50 to $2.00 in economic activity.70 By investing in a Child Tax Credit, Mississippi can take a significant step toward ensuring that all children have the opportunity to thrive, while also boosting the overall economic health of communities across the state.
Tackle the state’s high grocery tax: Eliminating the state’s grocery tax, reducing it by half from 7.0% to 3.5%, or providing a grocery tax credit is a critical policy solution that can alleviate financial burdens for Mississippi families, particularly those with lower incomes. Currently, Mississippi has the highest sales tax rate on groceries in the nation, with a tax rate of 7.0%, making it one of only three states that tax groceries at the full state sales tax rate.71 This tax disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income households, who spend a larger percentage of their income on food.72 If this tax were cut in half, Mississippians would save, on average, around $20.35 weekly, or over $1,000 in savings annually.73 By prioritizing the elimination of the grocery tax, Mississippi can enhance economic equity, support struggling families, and promote healthier eating habits by making nutritious food more affordable.
Expand Medicaid: Mississippi is one of ten states that have yet to expand Medicaid.74 As a result, currently there are over 200,000 uninsured adults with incomes below the poverty line who are currently caught in the Medicaid coverage gap.75
Expanding Medicaid would significantly increase access to healthcare services for those with low incomes, ultimately reducing health disparities and improving health outcomes for children and families. In addition, expanding Medicaid would also help stabilize the state’s healthcare system by increasing federal funding and enabling more residents to receive necessary medical care, thus lowering the overall cost of healthcare in the long term.76 Research indicates that Mississippi could realize a net fiscal benefit of $690 million over two years if expansion had been implemented in 2022.77
Given these benefits, Mississippi lawmakers should prioritize the expansion of Medicaid as a strategic move to enhance public health and well-being across the state. By expanding Medicaid, Mississippi could not only increase access to healthcare, it could also help reduce health-related disparities and improve the stability of health systems, including rural hospitals and community health centers.
Reform Mississippi’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a cash assistance program that combines federal and state funding to provide much-needed support to working families experiencing poverty. As a critical tool of our nation’s economic support system and critical support for some families experiencing a crisis or change of circumstances, across the nation, and especially in Mississippi, TANF falls short in providing the support that families need.
Currently, due to misuse, scandal, and administrative hurdles, Mississippi’s TANF program is not reaching families in need. In fact, Mississippi has one of the lowest benefit levels in the nation, providing assistance to only 10% of families living in poverty, compared to the national average of 23%.78 Lawmakers should reform TANF in Mississippi by increasing the TANF benefit to a level that actually supports families and helps them escape the cycle of poverty; simplifying the eligibility process, reducing administrative hurdles, ending behavioral control and restrictions to accessing assistance, and ensuring that the program is reaching the families who need it most; and using TANF funding for its original purpose—helping families with children attain economic stability. By prioritizing these reforms, Mississippi can ensure that its TANF program effectively addresses the needs of its most vulnerable residents.
Reform Mississippi’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): As one of the nation’s most important anti-hunger programs, SNAP is an important part of the federal safety net and is a critical anti-poverty tool available for Mississippians. To better support low-income families in Mississippi, the state should reform its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by increasing benefit levels and eliminating behavioral controls and restrictions that hinder access to assistance.
Currently, Mississippi has one of the lowest average SNAP benefits in the nation, which contributes to food insecurity for many families. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, more than 413,700 Mississippians rely on SNAP benefits79, with the program lifting an estimated 103,000 people above the poverty line in Mississippi, including 47,000 children.80 By raising benefit levels, the state can ensure that families have the resources needed to afford nutritious food, thus supporting healthier eating habits and improving overall health outcomes.
Adopt Paid Family and Medical Leave: To enhance the well-being of Mississippi’s workforce, state lawmakers should adopt a policy that provides up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave. Currently, while the federal Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave, it leaves many families vulnerable due to financial insecurity during crucial times such as the birth of a child or caring for a sick family member. And as of now, only eleven states offer paid family leave programs.81
Research indicates that paid family leave leads to a reduction in employee turnover and increases productivity, as workers are less stressed and more focused when they know they have the financial support to care for their families. 82 By implementing a paid family leave policy, Mississippi can significantly improve retention rates in the labor force and foster a healthier population, while also addressing critical social determinants of health.
Implement a state liveable wage: A livable wage ensures that more low-wage workers are paid enough to cover basic living expenses. A livable wage will be a great benefit to women, particularly Black women and other women of color. 83 Forty-six states have a state minimum wage.84 Thirty states have a minimum wage above the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.85 Five states―Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee―have not adopted a state minimum wage.86And two states―Georgia and Wyoming―have a minimum wage below the federal minimum wage.87
As one of the five states without a minimum wage, Mississippi applies the federal minimum wage of $7.25.88 The federal minimum wage has not changed since 2009, and if the minimum wage had been raised at the same pace as productivity growth since the late 1960s, it would be over $20 an hour today.89
Along with adopting a state minimum wage, Mississippi lawmakers should consider gradually raising the minimum wage to $15 to help women and families adequately cover basic needs.90 Providing a livable wage to Mississippians would help reduce poverty, improve income inequality, and ensure a better quality of life for the state’s women, children, and families.
Reduce Child Hunger: In 2024, Governor Tate Reeves opted out of the federal SUN Bucks summer food program, which would have provided $120 per child to families in Mississippi.91 While federally funded, states were responsible for half of the administrative costs.92 This decision left around 324,000 children in Mississippi without support, missing out on approximately $38 million in benefits and a potential economic impact of $58-70 million.93 To address this, state lawmakers should direct the Mississippi Department of Education and Mississippi Department of Human Services to secure funding for administrative costs and opt into the program in future years, ensuring consistent access to nutritious meals for children statewide.
49 Id.
Our mission is to ensure an equal voice for traditionally silenced communities. When One Voice’s work is done, we envision a Mississippi with a healthy vibrant thriving neighborhoods, schools, economy, and most importantly families.
123 Main Street
New York, NY 10001
One Vision. One Village. One Voice