Empower Commentary - Empower Mississippi

Empower Mississippi Commentary

Welcome to Empower Mississippi's Commentary page, where we provide in-depth analysis and thought-provoking perspectives on the key issues impacting our state. Stay informed with expert opinions, policy breakdowns, and the latest updates to understand the driving forces behind Mississippi's growth and challenges. Please note that the views expressed in guest columns are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Empower Mississippi.

Empower MS Releases 2025 Impact Report

By Empower Mississippi | March 2, 2026

Written by Empower Mississippi As we look back on 2025, we are reminded how much can change when Mississippians come together around a simple conviction: every person, no matter their ZIP code, income, or background, deserves the opportunity to rise. Last year brought meaningful progress across education, work, and justice. Mississippi continued to earn national attention…

HB 1072 — Voluntary Portable Benefit Plan Act

By Empower Mississippi | February 24, 2026

Written by Empower Mississippi House Bill 1072, authored by Representatives Lee Yancey and Rodney Hall, creates a voluntary “portable benefits” framework for independent contractors and freelancers in Mississippi. The bill allows businesses or hiring parties to contribute money into benefit accounts that are owned by the independent worker, not the company. Those funds can be used for…

Education Is Economic Development: Why Business Leaders Should Support House Bill

By Grant Callen | February 5, 2026

Written by Grant Callen This article was originally published in the February 2026 edition of the Mississippi Business Journal. Mississippi’s business community understands a basic but often overlooked reality: economic development does not begin with tax incentives or site selectors. It begins with people. If we want our state to grow, we must be able to…