Legislative Agenda

Working to make insurance more affordable

Insurance affordability continues to be among the most important issues for Gulf Coast residents. That’s why, as vice chairman of the House Insurance Committee, I have pushed for a Policyholders’ Bill of Rights to protect homeowners and small businesses from unfair claims practices and to bring greater transparency to the claims process. In 2009, I co-sponsored a law that put an additional $20 million in our state Wind Pool and lowered Coast insurance premiums.

Promoting business and increasing jobs

In this economy, we must have laws that work for business. That’s why I worked with Mississippi’s homebuilders to pass a law requiring contractors to disclose whether they have insurance and why I helped Realtors pass several laws aimed at improving Mississippi’s real estate market. For these efforts, I was named the 2010 Legislator of the Year by both the Mississippi Homebuilders Association and the Mississippi Realtors Association. In 2011, I also was proud to lead the effort to improve Mississippi’s oil production, a measure that will help create thousands of new jobs.

Protecting Mississippi families

Our laws must address the dangers facing Mississippi families. That’s why I authored the bill that toughened Mississippi’s stalking law and another bill that allows law enforcement officials to effectively investigate child pornography. I also was proud to write a law that requires a portion of bond proceeds to be deposited in the Mississippi Domestic Violence Fund. It was a real honor to receive the Chick Ball Hero of the Year award for my work in these areas.

Funding Our Schools

While some in Jackson wanted to cut next year’s funding for our public schools above and beyond the $300 million that has been slashed the past three years, I stood strong with other House colleagues and said “NO.” Enough is enough. Thankfully, the proposed cuts failed.

I am a graduate of Pascagoula public schools. I am incredibly proud of the school system in the city and throughout Jackson County. I understand and appreciate the value of a strong, effective public school system.