JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Mississippi lawmakers passed a budget for Fiscal Year 2026 during a special session called by Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.).

House and Senate lawmakers had to pass more than 100 bills that will make up the $7.135 billion budget. The new fiscal year will start on July 1, 2025.

Senate lawmakers completed their work on Thursday. The House worked overnight and finished a few hours after midnight.

State Senator Jeremy England (R-District 51) said the process would have been smoother if the House members were at the State Capitol while the Senate was working.

“I definitely agree with what the Speaker says. He talks about more transparency, wants a more transparent process with the budgeting, certainly gaveling in at midnight and going until 2:00. That’s not very transparent,” England said.

House Speaker Jason White (R-Miss.) said the House is disappointed in Senate leadership for not supporting local and county projects.

“We believe Mississippians find their tax dollars well spent when bridges are built, roads are repaired and sewage issues are addressed in their hometown,” he said.

Lawmakers who were not part of the budget talks ahead of the special session still have questions.

“I’m not asking them to let the minority make the budget, but I’m asking them at least be transparent, so we can know what’s in it., the citizens can know what’s in it. We’re not going to get anywhere. I don’t think this was contemplated to be a closed door process. I think the public and at least the members of the legislature should know what’s in this budget,” said State Sen. Rod Hickman (D-District 32).

Reeves said the budget will fund the core functions of the state’s government.

“It keeps us in the best financial shape in state history. It prepares us for more tax relief for our people by eliminating the income tax,” the governor said.