Jackson Free Press

[Verbatim statement] Mississippi citizens and interest groups will have the opportunity to speak to members of the Governor's Tax Study Commission, Chairman Leland Speed announced today. The opportunity for public comment will take place on Monday, May 19, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mississippi Telcom Center.

"The Commission's first two meetings, including the second meeting held today at Jackson State University, have served as general overview meetings of Mississippi's tax structure and general tax policy," Chairman Speed said. "As the Commission begins to sharpen its pencil, we'd like to begin that process by hearing from the public."

Both individuals and interest groups will have an opportunity to speak publicly to the Commission on May 19. Interested speakers or groups may e-mail [e-mail missing] or call 601-359-3150 by May 16 to reserve time. People who do not reserve time before May 16 but come to the meeting on May 19 will be placed at the end of the list. Space will be allocated on a first come first serve basis, and written statements will also be accepted.

In January, Governor Haley Barbour announced the creation of a public-private commission developed to study Mississippi's tax code and recommend reforms. During his re-election campaign, Governor Barbour promised to appoint this commission so the state would no longer take a piecemeal approach but a comprehensive approach to tax reform.

The Governor said any adjustments in the state tax code must complement federal and local tax codes in providing a stable source of revenue for essential public services while encouraging economic growth and job creation. The commission is required to present its findings and recommendations to the Governor, Legislature, and public on August 31, 2008.

For more information regarding the Governor's Tax Study Commission, visit http://www.governorbarbour.com and click on the "Mississippi Tax Study Commission" logo.