Mississippi bills to protect rural water rates pass, awaiting governor’s signature.

Two Mississippi bills aimed at protecting rural water customers from sudden rate hikes have passed the Legislature and await Governor Tate Reeves’ signature. They create a Rural Water Oversight Committee to monitor utility health, require regular financial and infrastructure studies, and mandate 5% of annual revenues be saved for upkeep. The Public Service Commission would gain power to seek court-ordered receivership for poorly managed utilities. If signed, the laws take effect July 1, 2026, to prevent financial instability and service failures.