JACKSON — Legislators gathered on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to introduce new legislation for the 2023 regular session. House Bill 583 would raise the minimum wage in Mississippi to $8.50 according to the bill.

In a similar stride to improve labor laws in Mississippi, House Bill 570 and 569 were introduced to repeal a ban on Teacher strikes and allow teachers to strike in any year where the legislature does not give them a raise. HB 583 was referred to the Workforce Development committee and Judiciary A committee. HB 570 and 569 were referred to the education committee and judiciary B committee. 

Infrastructure and Commerce

Meadville would receive funding for improvements to water and sewage infrastructure if House Bill 580 is passed. The bill was referred to the appropriations committee. 

Beer, wine and liquor are again being addressed in the legislature. House Bill 561 would allow the sale of wine in grocery stores. House Bill 562 would revise the policy of state prohibition of alcoholic beverages. House Bill 563 would allow the direct shipment and sale of wine to residents in the state. All three bills were referred to the Ways and Means committee.