With my second term as Secretary of State well underway, it's important to ensure Mississippians are aware of the work we have accomplished on their behalf. More importantly, it has become increasingly apparent small business owners and consumers across the state have recognized they have an advocate at the Secretary of State's Office.

We have listened, supported, and fought for hard-working Mississippians to make it easier to do business and work in the state. As we celebrate the four-year anniversary of our Tackle the Tape (TTT) initiative, I'm excited to provide updates of our successes to reduce the regulatory burden in Mississippi. 

As a member of the Occupational Licensing Review Commission (OLRC), my team and I have participated in 124 votes to assist those licensed by any of our state's 29 licensing boards. Through promotion of licensing reciprocity, elimination of overly restrictive regulations, or those which are anti-competitive, among others, Tackle the Tape has made it easier for individuals to obtain or renew professional licensure and has resulted in new businesses and jobs developing across Mississippi.

To be more proactive in reviewing MS licensing regulations, we launched the 29 by 29 strategic review plan in January 2022. With the goal of reviewing every regulation for all 29 boards and commissions by the year 2029, we have successfully completed and met with all six boards from the first two years of the plan (click here to view the full 29 by 29 schedule). As we have met with board members, most have been receptive to our team's proposed revisions and/or cuts. Evidenced by the 2029 goal, this is truly a marathon, not a sprint, but we are committed to making MS an easier place to do business.

While we work diligently to reduce the regulatory burden in the state, we have also seen conservative wins at the federal level. Just a few weeks ago, the Supreme Court overturned the Chevron Deference ruling. This is a major victory for the principles of limited government, checks and balances, and consent of the governed. For too long, we have seen politicians and unelected bureaucrats enact policies which stifle the American economy, often even without the authority to do so. We must continue to push back on overly-burdensome policies and work towards a government that, as our founders intended, is of and by the people.

Should you encounter a regulation hindering your business or profession, I encourage you to reach out to our office. Also, I encourage you to visit our redesigned and more user-friendly TTT website to learn more about this initiative or to report a burdensome regulation.

 
MICHAEL WATSON
Secretary of State
State of Mississippi