JACKSON, Miss.–Gov. Tate Reeves boasted that 2024 was the best year ever for Mississippi’s economy, stating that $32 billion of private sector investment has “flowed into Mississippi”, and saying that will be a “game changer” for Mississippi citizens.
Reeves gave the State of the State address in front of a special joint session of the state legislature Wednesday afternoon, mentioning the Delta Blues Advanced Power Station, which will be built in Washington County, among the largest of last year’s economic announcements.
“If you want something built right and built correctly, I say to every company in America, have it built in Mississippi,” he said. “Make no mistake, something special is happening here and it’s something we all should celebrate.”
But, Reeves said plans for 2025 include more investment from private companies, including the Yancey Engineered Solutions plant, announced Tuesday in Panola County.
Reeves championed Pres. Trump’s actions on improving the county’s energy independence. But, he noted that Mississippi is in competition with other states for economic projects and the resulting jobs, stating that Mississippi must create an environment that is inviting for investment.
“IThe single best thing that we can do for our state and its people is eliminate the state income tax,” he said.
He urged the state Senate and House to work together on a bill to eliminate the tax, and praised House Bill 1, which has already passed the House, to eliminate the tax and cut the state grocery tax.
“We must be a leader in American energy,” said Reeves in issuing a challenge. He praised the state Public Service Commissioners and said “Mississippi’s Power Play” would find solutions to bring more energy developments to Mississippi, saying, “We welcome all ideas…on one condition. Have a bias toward boldness.”
He said being able to provide power is key in attracting business, but Mississippi must increase investments in energy to keep the momentum up. He encouraged solutions for wind, solar, electric and gas energy.
“I know I will not be governor when the true fruits of this effort are picked,” he said, saying that all such efforts require time and patience. “But, I will be a Mississippian.”
Reeves also discouraged the expansion of Medicaid, which has been promised and was tried last year, but has not been discussed in a large way yet this legislative session. He also encouraged the continued raising of standards in education, building on recent advancements.