ECONOMY

Mississippi's economic problems stem from a combination of factors, including a historically underdeveloped infrastructure, limited job opportunities in key industries, and challenges in education and workforce training. The state's reliance on low-wage industries and a lack of investment in high-growth sectors have hindered long-term economic development. Additionally, population decline and rural poverty have created barriers to attracting new businesses and talent. These issues are compounded by a need for greater access to quality education and workforce development programs that prepare residents for modern, higher-paying jobs.

Sarah brings valuable experience in economic growth, having collaborated in a $55 million mixed-use real estate project that is currently underway in Mississippi. This development includes medical complexes, retail spaces, and residential units, positioning it as a hub of economic activity that caters to healthcare needs while attracting local businesses and residents. Her collaboration in this project demonstrates her understanding of how to create sustainable growth through strategic investments. By developing multi-functional spaces that cater to both business and community needs, Sarah is helping drive economic progress in Mississippi through job creation, business expansion, and improved access to healthcare.

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To further boost Mississippi’s economy, Sarah believes the state must lean on strong business models, innovative educational programs, and a robust tourism industry. Her experience in real estate development and finance equips her with the knowledge to craft policies that encourage private sector growth while minimizing government interference. By focusing on pro-business policies, reducing taxes, and eliminating unnecessary regulations, Mississippi can foster an environment where local businesses thrive. Coupled with a workforce educated in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, and energy, the state will be well-positioned to grow and compete on the national level.

This five-step program is designed to bring federal resources and policy changes to Mississippi, boosting key sectors like small business, infrastructure, energy, and tourism. By creating a business-friendly environment, investing in workforce development, and promoting Mississippi’s tourism assets, this program will lead to job creation, higher wages, and sustainable economic growth across the state.

Mississippi’s economy will become more competitive on the national stage, attracting new businesses, tourists, and federal investment, ensuring a prosperous future for its residents.

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1. Federal Tax Reform to Benefit Small Businesses and Job Creators

• Proposal: Advocate for further federal tax cuts for small businesses, especially in economically distressed areas such as rural Mississippi. Push for a permanent extension of the Opportunity Zones program, which provides tax incentives for investment in low-income areas.

• Implementation: Introduce and co-sponsor legislation that cuts federal taxes for small businesses, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and energy sectors, critical to Mississippi's economy. Expand the Opportunity Zones program to ensure long-term investments in underserved areas of Mississippi.

• Expected Impact: By reducing the tax burden on small businesses and attracting investment to underserved areas, this policy will create jobs, encourage entrepreneurship, and promote economic revitalization, particularly in rural parts of Mississippi. This will lead to sustained economic growth in key sectors, such as manufacturing and agriculture.

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2. Investment in Infrastructure through Federal Grants and Public-Private Partnerships

• Proposal: Secure federal infrastructure funding to improve Mississippi's roads, bridges, ports, and broadband access. Advocate for increased federal grants for infrastructure projects that facilitate tourism and trade.

• Implementation: Work with the Senate Appropriations Committee and Department of Transportation to prioritize Mississippi's infrastructure needs, particularly in rural areas and tourism-heavy regions like the Gulf Coast. Encourage public-private partnerships to fund large-scale infrastructure projects, such as upgrading highways and expanding broadband.

• Expected Impact: Improving Mississippi’s infrastructure will enhance business logistics, make the state more attractive to investors, and boost tourism by improving access to key destinations. The expansion of broadband access will also allow businesses in rural areas to thrive and enable more people to participate in the digital economy.

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3. Workforce Development through Federal Education and Job Training Programs

• Proposal: Push for increased federal funding for workforce development programs, particularly in technical trades and high-demand industries such as healthcare, energy, and advanced manufacturing. Promote job training programs tailored to Mississippi’s economic needs.

• Implementation: Partner with the Department of Labor to secure funding for job training programs that equip Mississippi residents with skills aligned with high-demand sectors. Advocate for federal grants to expand technical education programs in Mississippi community colleges and universities. Collaborate with private companies to create apprenticeship programs.

• Expected Impact: A skilled workforce is essential to attract businesses to Mississippi and increase competitiveness in growing industries. Expanding workforce training programs will lead to higher wages, reduce unemployment, and provide opportunities for residents in both rural and urban areas. This will ensure a sustainable pipeline of talent for key industries, driving economic growth across the state.

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4. Promote Energy Development and Independence

• Proposal: Advocate for federal policies that support Mississippi’s energy sector, including offshore drilling, natural gas production, and renewable energy development. Support deregulation efforts at the federal level to make it easier for energy companies to operate in Mississippi.

• Implementation: Introduce and support legislation that encourages domestic energy production, including offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico and natural gas exploration in Mississippi. Push for federal tax incentives for renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind farms, and work with energy companies to develop Mississippi’s energy resources responsibly.

• Expected Impact: Expanding Mississippi's energy sector will create high-paying jobs, generate state and federal revenue, and make the state a key player in the U.S. energy market. By diversifying energy sources, Mississippi will benefit from both traditional and renewable energy investments, boosting long-term economic stability and job creation.

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5. Tourism Development through Federal Grants and Marketing Campaigns

• Proposal: Secure federal tourism grants and funding for infrastructure improvements in Mississippi's top tourist destinations, such as the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi River, and historical sites. Advocate for a national marketing campaign to promote Mississippi’s natural, cultural, and historical attractions.

• Implementation: Partner with the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, and Department of Commerce to secure federal funding for tourism infrastructure improvements. This could include the restoration of historical sites, upgrades to parks, and enhancements to Mississippi’s coastline. Push for federal tourism marketing initiatives that spotlight Mississippi as a top travel destination.

• Expected Impact: Enhancing Mississippi’s tourism infrastructure and promoting the state at the national level will lead to increased visitor numbers, especially from out of state. This will drive growth in the hospitality, retail, and service industries, creating jobs and increasing tax revenue. Improved tourism infrastructure will also benefit local residents and businesses, leading to more sustainable economic growth.​

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