Mississippi House Passes Bill to Create Jackson Water Authority

Jackson City Council calls special meeting to address proposed legislation

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Mississippi House has approved House Bill 1677, known as the Metro Jackson Water Authority Act, which aims to establish a new water authority to take control of the Jackson water and sewer system after the federal court terminates the current interim third-party manager. The proposed legislation would create a board of directors with members appointed by Jackson officials, the governor, and the lieutenant governor.

Why it matters

The proposed water authority is intended to provide oversight and accountability for the management of Jackson's water infrastructure, which has faced longstanding issues with aging pipes and water quality. However, the city government has raised concerns about the state's involvement in the oversight of the local water system.

The details

The bill, authored by Rep. Shanda Yates of Jackson, would give the new water authority board the power to set rates, collect fees, make contracts, and issue bonds. The bill also requires annual reports to state officials and independent audits. The appointments to the board would be made by May 1 if the legislation is approved.

  • The Mississippi House recently approved House Bill 1677.
  • The Jackson City Council is holding a special meeting on Wednesday in response to the proposed legislation.

The players

House Bill 1677

Also known as the Metro Jackson Water Authority Act, this proposed legislation aims to establish a new water authority to take control of the Jackson water and sewer system.

Rep. Shanda Yates

The Jackson-area state representative who authored House Bill 1677.

Ted Henifin

The interim third-party manager appointed by the federal court to oversee the Jackson water system.

Jackson City Council

The local government body that is holding a special meeting to address the proposed water authority legislation.

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What’s next

The Jackson City Council will hold a special meeting on Wednesday to discuss and respond to House Bill 1677. If the legislation is approved, the board of directors for the new water authority would be appointed by May 1.

The takeaway

The proposed creation of a Jackson water authority highlights the ongoing tensions between the state government and the city over control and management of the local water system, which has been plagued by infrastructure problems for years. The outcome of this legislation could have significant implications for the future of water service in Mississippi's capital city.