1. How does the state of Mississippi address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families?

The state of Mississippi has several programs in place to address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families. These include:

1. Mississippi Broadband Connect Grant Program: This program offers grants to internet service providers (ISPs) to expand broadband access to unserved and underserved areas in the state, including low-income communities.

2. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program provides a monthly discount on phone or internet services for eligible low-income households.

3. ConnectHome Initiative: This program, led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, works with local partners to provide free or low-cost internet access to HUD-assisted housing residents in Mississippi.

4. Digital Divide Product Tax Credit: This tax credit allows businesses that invest in digital infrastructure, such as broadband networks, to receive a tax credit up to $5 million per project.

5. Affordable Connectivity Order: In 2020, the Mississippi Public Service Commission passed an order requiring ISPs to offer low-cost broadband options for qualifying low-income households.

6. Non-Profit Discount Programs: Some ISPs in Mississippi offer discounted rates for non-profit organizations serving low-income individuals and families.

7. Education Broadband Access Act: Recently passed legislation requires all school districts in the state to provide broadband internet access to students at home, either through mobile hotspot devices or other means.

Overall, these programs aim to increase access to affordable broadband for low-income families across the state of Mississippi.

2. What government programs are available in Mississippi to ensure affordable internet access for underserved communities?

1. Mississippi Connects Initiative:
The Mississippi Connects Initiative aims to provide high-speed broadband internet access to all households and businesses in the state by 2025. This program is a collaboration between the state government, private sector companies, and community organizations to increase broadband infrastructure and internet adoption.

2. Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP):
BTOP is a federal grant program that provides funding for broadband infrastructure projects in underserved communities. The program has provided grants to various projects in Mississippi, including expanding fiber network infrastructure and creating public computer centers in rural areas.

3. Lifeline Assistance Program:
The Lifeline Assistance Program provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service for qualifying low-income households. Eligible residents can receive up to $9.25 per month towards their phone or internet bill through participating providers.

4. Universal Service Fund:
Mississippi participates in the federal Universal Service Fund, which provides funding for telecommunications services and infrastructure in underserved areas. This includes subsidies for broadband infrastructure buildout and discounted rates for low-income households.

5. Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs):
A number of WISPs operate in Mississippi, offering fixed wireless internet service to rural areas where traditional wired options are not available or affordable.

6. Digital Works Training Program:
Digital Works is a workforce development program that provides training in digital skills to help individuals find remote job opportunities. The program has a location in Southaven, MS and offers free training for residents.

7. ConnectHome USA:
ConnectHome USA is a national initiative that works with local stakeholders to provide affordable home internet access, devices, as well as digital literacy training to residents living in HUD-assisted housing units. Several communities in Mississippi participate in this program.

8. Mobile Hotspot Lending Programs:
Some public libraries and community centers offer mobile hotspot lending programs, allowing residents without home internet access to check out portable devices that provide Wi-Fi connections for personal use.

3. In what ways is the government of Mississippi working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents?

The government of Mississippi is taking several steps to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents:

1. Broadband Expansion: The state government has launched initiatives to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas, including rural communities. In 2019, Governor Phil Bryant signed a law that allows electric cooperatives to provide broadband services, opening up new options for high-speed internet access.

2. Assistance Programs: Mississippi offers a Lifeline Assistance Program and a Link Up America Program, which are federal programs that provide discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. The state also offers a Mississippi Universal Service Fund that supports affordable broadband access for schools, libraries, and healthcare facilities.

3. Wi-Fi Hotspots: The state has established public Wi-Fi hotspots in libraries, community centers, parks, and other public spaces to provide free internet access to residents who may not have it at home.

4. Digital Literacy Programs: Several programs have been implemented to promote digital literacy skills among residents of all ages. For example, the Mississippi Department of Education has partnered with local businesses and organizations to offer digital skills training workshops for adults.

5. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has partnered with private companies to bring broadband services to underserved areas through financial incentives and grants. This encourages private investment in expanding broadband infrastructure.

6. Lowering Regulatory Barriers: The state government has worked towards streamlining regulations and reducing barriers for telecommunication providers looking to enter the market, making it easier for new companies to offer more affordable internet options.

7. Federal Funding: The state has applied for federal funding from programs such as the Connect America Fund (CAF) and Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) to support broadband expansion efforts.

Overall, the government of Mississippi is actively working towards bridging the digital divide by creating partnerships, providing financial assistance and resources, as well as reducing regulatory barriers in order to make affordable internet access available to all residents.

4. What incentives or initiatives has Mississippi implemented to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans?

Mississippi has implemented several initiatives and programs to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans. These include:

1. Mississippi Broadband Connect Grant Program: This program offers grants to ISPs that agree to build broadband infrastructure in underserved areas of the state. The goal is to increase access to high-speed internet and encourage competition, which can lead to lower prices for consumers.

2. Broadband Technical Assistance Program: This program provides technical assistance and resources to help local communities and organizations apply for federal broadband funding, develop plans for expanding broadband access, and attract new broadband providers.

3. Rural Electric Cooperatives: The state has partnered with rural electric cooperatives to provide high-speed internet service in their service territories. These cooperatives have a mandate to serve their members at cost, which can result in more affordable internet plans for rural residents.

4. Tax Incentives: Mississippi offers tax incentives for ISPs that invest in expanding their networks in underserved areas of the state. This encourages ISPs to expand into these areas and offer more affordable plans.

5. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has also entered into public-private partnerships with ISPs to expand broadband access in underserved areas. These partnerships often involve a combination of government funding and private investment, which can lead to more competitive pricing.

6. Digital Dividend Grant Program: This program provides grants to schools, libraries, hospitals, and other community anchor institutions in low-income or rural areas to help them acquire equipment or services necessary for reliable high-speed connectivity.

7. Broadband Task Force: In 2020, Mississippi established a statewide Broadband Task Force consisting of representatives from various sectors, including government agencies, ISPs, community organizations, and educational institutions. The task force is responsible for identifying barriers to broadband deployment and developing strategies for increasing affordable access across the state.

8.Broadband Expansion Loan Program:The state offers low-interest loans through this program for the development of high-speed internet infrastructure in underserved areas. These loans can help ISPs cover the initial costs of building networks, which can make it more feasible for them to offer affordable plans.

5. Is there a specific agency or department in Mississippi responsible for overseeing internet affordability programs?

Yes, the Public Utilities Staff of the Mississippi Public Service Commission is responsible for overseeing internet affordability programs in Mississippi. They monitor and regulate the activities of telecommunications companies, including pricing and access to affordable internet services for consumers.

6. How does Mississippi measure and track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents?

Mississippi uses several methods to measure and track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents. These include:

1. State Broadband Map: The Mississippi Public Service Commission maintains an interactive State Broadband Map that provides information on broadband accessibility, speed, and type of technology available in each county.

2. Connect Mississippi Initiative: The state government launched the Connect Mississippi Initiative to increase broadband access and adoption across the state. It conducts surveys, collects data, and establishes partnerships to track progress towards its goal of 99% statewide broadband availability by 2019.

3. FCC Form 477 Data: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires all broadband providers to report their broadband coverage and service data biannually through the FCC Form 477. This data is publicly available and can be used to track broadband deployment in Mississippi.

4. Broadband Deployment Advisory Group (BDAG): In 2016, the Governor formed the BDAG comprising representatives from state agencies, local governments, telecommunication industries, and other stakeholders to advise on ways to improve broadband access in Mississippi.

5. Digital Nation: This is a collaborative effort between the US Census Bureau and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that tracks broadband adoption through surveys conducted by the bureau.

6. Broadband Infrastructure Office (BIO): BIO was established within the Mississippi Department of Economic Development to facilitate broadband expansion efforts across the state by leveraging public-private partnerships.

7. Private Sector Data: Internet service providers also track their own progress in expanding broadband access within their service areas using metrics such as new subscribers, network performance reports, customer satisfaction scores etc.

8. Speed Test Programs: The FCC has launched a nationwide “Measuring Broadband America” program which measures actual home fixed internet speeds through periodic speed tests conducted by volunteers across the country including Mississippi.

Together these methods provide a comprehensive picture of current broadband availability within Mississippi as well as monitoring progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents.

7. Are there any partnerships between government and private companies in Mississippi aimed at lowering the cost of internet service?

There are a few partnerships between government and private companies in Mississippi that aim to lower the cost of internet service:

1. ConnectHome Mississippi: This is a partnership between the Mississippi Housing Authority and local internet providers to offer low-cost or free high-speed internet service to public housing residents across the state.

2. Rural Broadband Pilot Program: This program, launched by the Mississippi Public Service Commission, provides funding for private companies to build broadband infrastructure in unserved or underserved areas of the state. The goal is to bring down the cost of broadband for residents in these areas.

3. Lifeline Program: This is a federal program available in Mississippi that provides a discount on monthly phone and internet service for qualifying low-income households through participating providers.

4. C Spire Home Internet Initiative: In partnership with major telecommunications companies like AT&T and T-Mobile, C Spire offers an affordable home internet service to low-income families in Mississippi.

5. School Connect Program: Initiated by Governor Tate Reeves, this program partners with major technology companies like Amazon and Microsoft to provide students with free access to devices and high-speed internet services for remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overall, these partnerships between government and private companies aim to bridge the digital divide and make high-speed internet more accessible and affordable for all residents of Mississippi.

8. Does Mississippi provide subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs?

Mississippi does not currently offer any specific subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs. However, there are some programs and initiatives in place that aim to increase broadband access for underserved communities in the state.

1. Mississippi Broadband Deployment Initiative (BDI)
The BDI was created by the Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC) in 2005 to encourage the deployment of high-speed broadband services in rural and underserved areas of the state. This initiative offers financial assistance, tax incentives, and other resources to qualified providers through public-private partnerships.

2. Digital Divide/E-rate Program
The state’s Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) manages this program, which works to expand broadband access for rural schools and libraries. The program provides discounts on internet services and equipment to eligible schools and libraries, as well as technical assistance and training.

3. Lifeline Assistance Program
Mississippi participates in the federal Lifeline Assistance Program, which offers a discounted phone or internet service for low-income households. Eligible individuals can receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on their home phone, wireless phone or internet bill.

4. ConnectHome MS
ConnectHome MS is a partnership between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), national nonprofit EveryoneOn, and local agencies to provide low-cost home internet service, digital literacy training, and device distribution to residents living in public housing across the state.

Additionally, some internet service providers (ISPs) may offer special programs or discounts for low-income households in Mississippi. It’s recommended that you contact your local ISP to inquire about any available options or programs for reducing your internet costs.

9. Are there any state-level regulations or policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services in Mississippi?

There does not appear to be any state-level regulations or policies in place specifically targeting ISPs charging exorbitant prices for internet services in Mississippi. However, the Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC) does have some oversight over telecommunications services, including broadband internet. The PSC has the authority to review and approve reasonable rates for certain telecommunications services, but this primarily applies to landline phone service and not directly to broadband internet.

In addition, Mississippi is one of 22 states that have not passed legislation prohibiting local governments from creating municipal broadband networks. This means that cities and towns in Mississippi are able to explore the option of creating publicly-owned and operated broadband networks as a way to increase competition and potentially lower prices for internet services.

Overall, however, there do not appear to be any specific state-level regulations or policies targeting excessive pricing by ISPs in Mississippi at this time.

10. Can students from low-income families in Mississippi access discounted or free high-speed internet through government programs?

Yes, low-income families in Mississippi may be eligible for discounted or free high-speed internet through various government programs, such as Lifeline Assistance and the ConnectHome initiative. These programs are designed to help bridge the digital divide and provide affordable internet options for those who may not be able to afford it. Eligibility requirements vary, so it is best to research specific programs and providers in your area.

11. How does Mississippi’s approach to promoting internet affordability differ from that of other states?

Mississippi’s approach to promoting internet affordability differs from that of other states in several ways:

1. State-Wide Initiatives: Mississippi has implemented various state-wide initiatives to promote internet affordability for its residents. These include the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), the Connect America Fund (CAF), and the Mississippi Broadband Connect Coalition.

2. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has encouraged public-private partnerships to increase broadband availability and affordability. For example, through its partnership with C Spire, Mississippi was one of the first states to offer 1 Gbps broadband speeds.

3. Tax Incentives: Mississippi offers tax incentives to internet service providers who invest in expanding and upgrading their networks in underserved areas of the state. This encourages ISPs to make affordable internet available to more residents.

4. Low-Cost Broadband Options: The state has collaborated with internet service providers to offer low-cost broadband plans for lower-income households. These plans include discounted rates and waived installation fees.

5. Digital Literacy Initiatives: To ensure that all residents can take advantage of affordable internet options, the state has also invested in digital literacy programs that provide training and resources to help people learn how to use the internet effectively.

Overall, Mississippi’s approach is comprehensive, combining a mix of state-wide initiatives, public-private partnerships, tax incentives, and digital literacy programs to make affordable internet accessible for all residents, especially those living in rural or low-income areas. This approach sets it apart from other states that may focus on only one or two of these strategies.

12. Has the government ofMississippi launched any innovative initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents?

Yes, the government of Mississippi has launched several initiatives to improve broadband access and affordability for its residents.

1. Mississippi Broadband Connect Coalition – This public-private coalition was formed in 2020 to address the digital divide in the state and work towards achieving universal broadband access. The coalition is comprised of leaders from state agencies, telecommunication companies, electric cooperatives, and community organizations.

2. Broadband Accessibility Act – In 2019, the state passed this legislation which provides tax incentives for telecom companies to invest in high-speed broadband infrastructure in underserved areas of the state.

3. Rural Electric Cooperatives Broadband Pilot Program – In 2018, the state allocated $1 million for a pilot program that would allow rural electric cooperatives to provide high-speed internet services to their members.

4. Mississippi Senate Bill 2939 – This legislation passed in 2019 provides grants to local governments and nonprofits to assist with the cost of providing broadband services in underserved or unserved areas of the state.

5. Pandemic Response Broadband Program – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the state launched this program in 2020 to provide free or low-cost internet service and devices to students and families who lacked reliable internet access at home.

6. Mississippi Public Service Commission Task Force on Rural Broadband – This task force was established in 2020 to study ways to improve broadband infrastructure and access in rural areas of the state.

Overall, these initiatives aim to increase investment in broadband infrastructure, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and expand affordable access to high-speed internet services for all residents of Mississippi.

13. Do rural areas in Mississippi have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas do?

There are currently disparities in access to affordable internet services between rural and urban areas in Mississippi. According to a report by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), as of 2018, approximately 70% of Mississippi’s rural population lacked access to broadband speeds of at least 25 Mbps, compared to only 22% of the state’s urban population.

This lack of access can be attributed to several factors, including the high cost of deploying broadband infrastructure in sparsely populated areas and the lower demand for internet services in rural communities. As a result, many rural areas may have limited options and higher prices for internet services compared to their urban counterparts.

However, efforts have been made in recent years to improve broadband access in rural areas of Mississippi. The FCC has implemented programs such as the Connect America Fund and the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund that provide funding for broadband infrastructure projects in underserved areas. Additionally, some internet service providers have expanded their coverage into rural communities through public-private partnerships and other initiatives.

Despite these efforts, there is still work to be done to ensure equal access to affordable internet services in both urban and rural areas of Mississippi.

14. What role do community organizations play in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Mississippi?

Community organizations play a vital role in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Mississippi. These organizations can represent and amplify the voices of communities that are under-served or lack access to affordable high-speed internet. They can educate community members about their options, advocate for policies that promote increased competition and affordability, and work with local governments and service providers to address gaps in coverage.

Some specific roles that community organizations can play in advocating for more affordable internet options include:

1. Raising awareness: Community organizations can educate their members and the larger community about the importance of affordable internet access and how it affects their lives. They can also raise awareness about existing initiatives or campaigns working towards affordable internet options.

2. Building coalitions: Community organizations can bring together different stakeholders, including residents, businesses, non-profits, and policymakers to advocate for better internet options. By working together, they can have a stronger voice and influence decision-making processes.

3. Conducting research: Community organizations can conduct surveys or research studies to gather data on the affordability of internet services in their area. This information can be used as evidence to support their advocacy efforts.

4. Petitioning policymakers: Community organizations can create petitions or letter-writing campaigns to pressure policymakers at all levels (local, state, national) to take action on improving broadband affordability.

5. Partnering with service providers: Community organizations may be able to negotiate with service providers on behalf of their members or collaborate with them to develop more affordable plans for low-income households.

6. Identifying grants and funding opportunities: Many community organizations have experience obtaining grants and funding for various projects. They may be helpful in identifying potential sources of funding that could support initiatives aimed at increasing affordable broadband access.

7. Holding events: Community organizations can organize forums or town hall meetings where their members and other residents can discuss issues related to broadband access and affordability in their community.

Overall, community organizations have a critical role to play in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Mississippi. By working together, they can bring about positive change and ensure that all residents have access to high-speed internet at an affordable price.

15. Are there any tax credits or incentives available to ISPs in exchange for offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services in Mississippi?

The State of Mississippi does not currently offer any specific tax credits or incentives for ISPs to offer lower-cost, high-speed internet services. However, the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act (MS Code § 77-17-3) states that ISPs can receive certain cost savings when installing broadband facilities on public rights-of-way. Additionally, some cities and counties in Mississippi may offer local incentives for ISPs to expand their services in their area.

16. How transparent is the government of Mississippi’s decision-making process when it comes to allocating funds towards improving internet affordability?

The level of transparency in the government of Mississippi’s decision-making process regarding allocating funds towards improving internet affordability varies. The state government has taken some steps towards transparency, such as publicly announcing funding initiatives and publishing reports on broadband access and usage, but there are also concerns about the lack of public input and oversight in the decision-making process.

On one hand, Mississippi has made efforts to increase transparency by creating a Broadband Deployment Task Force, which included representatives from various industries and community members, to research and make recommendations for improving broadband access. The task force held meetings open to the public, collected feedback through an online survey, and published detailed reports on their findings and recommendations.

In addition, Mississippi also established a Broadband Infrastructure Office within the state’s Department of Information Technology Services to oversee broadband initiatives and provide updates on progress. The office publishes information on their website about ongoing projects funded by federal grants.

However, there have been criticisms that these efforts do not go far enough in promoting transparency. For example, some argue that the task force lacked representation from consumer advocacy groups or individuals with expertise in internet access issues. There have also been concerns that funding decisions are largely made behind closed doors without sufficient public input or oversight.

Overall, while the state government has made some effort towards transparency in its decision-making process for improving internet affordability, there is room for improvement in terms of ensuring greater public involvement and oversight.

17. What strategies has Mississippi employed to promote digital equity and ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet?

Mississippi has implemented several strategies to promote digital equity and ensure affordable internet access for all residents, including:

1. Expansion of broadband infrastructure: Mississippi has invested in expanding and upgrading its broadband infrastructure to reach underserved areas and communities.

2. Public-private partnerships: The state has entered into partnerships with private internet service providers to expand their networks and provide affordable access to residents.

3. Federal funding programs: Mississippi has leveraged funding from federal programs such as the Connect America Fund and the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund to support broadband deployment in rural areas.

4. Creating a state broadband office: In 2018, the state legislature passed a bill creating a State Broadband Coordinator position within the Mississippi Development Authority, responsible for coordinating broadband initiatives across agencies.

5. Broadband adoption programs: The Mississippi Public Service Commission launched the “GIVE (Growing, Improving, Viewing Entering) program” which offers grants to schools, libraries, and local governments to increase digital literacy and internet adoption rates among residents.

6. Mobile hotspot lending program: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mississippi launched a mobile hotspot lending program through libraries to help students without home internet access continue their education remotely.

7. Community-based initiatives: Organizations such as the Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits and Philanthropy have created digital inclusion programs focused on providing low-cost internet service, digital literacy training, and access to devices for underserved communities.

8. Reaching out to private companies for discounts: Through its involvement with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners’ Lifeline Assistance Modernization Advisory Committee, Mississippi has encouraged telecommunications companies to offer discounted plans or reduced prices for low-income households.

9. Connecting classrooms initiative: The Mississippi Department of Education partnered with Mississippi State University’s Extension Service’s Center for Technology Outreach in 2020 to launch “Connecting Classrooms” which provides resources for teachers in remote areas to connect with high-speed internet by using innovative technology tools.

18. Does the state government in Mississippi work closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability?

Yes, the state government in Mississippi does work closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability. The Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC), which regulates telecommunications services in the state, works with local utilities and municipalities to expand broadband access through initiatives such as the Connect America Fund (CAF) and the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF).

The PSC also partners with organizations like Connected Nation Mississippi to provide technical assistance and resources to local communities for increasing broadband adoption and digital literacy. In addition, the state government offers grants and tax incentives to telecommunication providers who invest in expanding broadband infrastructure to underserved areas.

Furthermore, the Mississippi Technology Alliance collaborates with local governments and community organizations to promote digital inclusion through initiatives like training programs, public Wi-Fi access points, and discounted internet plans for low-income households.

Overall, there is a strong partnership between the state government and local municipalities in Mississippi to improve internet affordability and accessibility across the state.

19. How does the state ofMississippi compare to neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability?

Mississippi lags behind neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability. According to a 2018 report by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Mississippi was ranked last among all 50 states in terms of broadband access and adoption.

Neighboring states such as Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee have made more significant strides in promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability. For example, Tennessee’s Electric Cooperative launched a program called Gigabit Smart Communities which offers high-speed internet to rural areas at affordable rates. Arkansas also has various initiatives in place to increase broadband access for its residents, including state grants and partnerships with internet service providers.

Mississippi has implemented some initiatives such as the Mississippi Broadband Connect Coalition and the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act, but they have not had significant impacts on increasing broadband access across the state. Additionally, neighboring states like Louisiana and Texas also rank higher than Mississippi in terms of broadband access and adoption.

Overall, while efforts are being made to close the digital divide in Mississippi, it still faces significant challenges compared to its neighboring states in promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability.

20. Are there long-term plans in place in Mississippi to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents?

Yes, there are long-term plans in place in Mississippi to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents. In 2019, Governor Phil Bryant signed the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act, which allows electric cooperatives to provide broadband services and expand access to high-speed internet for rural communities. Additionally, the state has launched multiple initiatives and programs aimed at increasing broadband access, including the Connect Mississippi program which helps connect underserved areas with high-speed internet. The Mississippi Public Service Commission also has a goal of making affordable broadband available to all Mississippians by 2022 through its “Connectivity Empowering Rural Communities” (CERC) program. Furthermore, the state has received federal funding through programs such as the Connect America Fund and Rural Digital Opportunity Fund to support broadband infrastructure projects. These efforts, along with continued partnerships between private and public entities, aim to make high-speed internet accessible and affordable for all residents in Mississippi in the long term.