YP Daily Roundup 12/6/19

The biggest sticking points for the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office in their audit of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics’ 2018 fiscal year revolved around Executive Director John Dowdy is, in fact, a sworn law enforcement officer.

State Auditor Shad White’s findings call for Dowdy to pay back $30,122 to taxpayers for compensatory time buybacks that they say were mostly not approved by Commissioner Marshall Fisher and a clothing allowance reserved for sworn law enforcement officers.

But, White said, there are no findings of criminal behavior or attempts to hide things or mislead investigators. He said Dowdy was cooperative and helpful during the audit investigation.

Hyde-Smith backs new SNAP rule

This rule will restore the original intent of SNAP benefits as a source of temporary assistance and save taxpayer dollars while ensuring those truly in need get help. https://t.co/efaNgyxOj0

— Cindy Hyde-Smith (@cindyhydesmith) December 5, 2019

Espy disappointed in SNAP change

I’m disappointed to learn that the Administration plans to cut benefits for 700,000 SNAP recipients — and at Christmas. This program prevents hunger and benefits farmers who depend on the consumer market. American people go hungry and American farmers continue to lose money.

— Mike Espy (@MikeEspyMS) December 5, 2019

Congressman Thompson upset with SNAP rule change over “stupid trade agreement” Trump made

The Trump administration will cut off SNAP benefits for 700,000 people while paying $261 million to wealthy farmers because of a stupid trade agreement he made.

— Bennie G. Thompson (@BennieGThompson) December 5, 2019

WXXV – Keith Davis leaving MDMR for role in Sec. of State office

Gov. Bryant orders flag at half-staff in honor of Cochran

I have signed an executive order to lower the flags in honor of Nielsen Harris Cochran who passed away. The flags shall be lowered beginning at sunrise and ending sunset Friday. pic.twitter.com/TeR0qkZQ2W

— Phil Bryant (@PhilBryantMS) December 5, 2019

ANCHORAGE DAILY NEWS – Mississippi more than a year ahead of Alaska in fourth grade reading

For decades, Mississippi was synonymous with poor student achievement. Not anymore. 

Mississippi now is leading the way. We have more work ahead but our students can achieve with great teachers and parents who have made it all possible. https://t.co/pcGFXHUBkf

— Phil Bryant (@PhilBryantMS) December 5, 2019

Outgoing MS House Democrat Leader Baria jabs at MSGOP over election contest

I have little doubt that if the incumbent was anyone other than Rep. Henley the House GOP would reverse this election just like it did with Rep. Bo Eaton. However, there was talk that the GOP tried to beat Rep. Henley in the Republican primary. Stay tuned. https://t.co/Bbm3s7h6t5

— David Baria (@dbaria) December 6, 2019

NEWSMS – Delegation in D.C. requests federal assistance following October storms

The Mississippi congressional delegation sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump requesting full consideration of Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant’s request for a major federal disaster declaration in the wake of devastation from straight-line winds and flooding caused by Tropical Storm Olga in October.

U.S. Senators Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith, and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, Steven Palazzo, Trent Kelly, and Michael Guest signed the letter.

The delegation letter referenced damage reports indicating at least 154,000 power outages, 772 lost or damaged homes, 26 affected businesses, 27 destroyed or damaged roads, other public property damages, and one fatality from these events.  The Governor’s request covers 16 counties, including Alcorn, Covington, Itawamba, Jasper, Jefferson Davis, Leake, Lee, Marion, Neshoba, Newton, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Scott, Simpson, Smith, and Tippah, as well as hazard mitigation assistance statewide.

Wicker supports FCC 5G fund

I’m grateful for your support, @SenateCommerce Chairman @SenatorWicker! Look forward to working with you, other Committee members, and other stakeholders on ensuring that all Americans benefit from next-generation wireless networks. #5GFAST https://t.co/BNMmbV1EoA

— Ajit Pai (@AjitPaiFCC) December 5, 2019