Democratic legislators added amendments to create a state lotto program to two separate bills. One to create an advisory committee to examine the potential revenue from fantasy sports, and another to revise the compensation for bingo supervisors. A number of lawmakers spoke in support of a state lottery. They said Mississippians travel to neighboring states in order to play the lottery. This can cost the state as much as $100 millions per year in revenue. One of the amendments was sponsored by Tommy Reynolds, a Democratic Representative from Charleston. “And if some of these costs are going to be borne by our people, then we should also enjoy some of their benefits.” Reynolds’ amendment was accepted and the fantasy-contest bill was passed 84 to 35. Following that, Rep. Alyce Clarke (D-Jackson), who had previously filed bills calling for the creation a lottery to help public education, proposed her lottery amendment to another bill. Mississippi voters approved the 1992 establishment of a lottery through a statewide referendum. However, lawmakers failed to pass the necessary legislation to make the law effective. The changes made by the House to the bills would have to be approved by the state Senate and Gov. Before it can become law, Phil Bryant must sign it. Lt. Governor spokeswoman. Tate Reeves did not respond until Reeves had seen the amended House bill. The House added the lottery amendment to the fantasy gaming bill authored by Sen. Sean Tindell (R-Gulfport). Tindell sponsored another bill earlier in the session that would establish a lottery. In January, that bill was killed in committee. Tindell stated that he was aware of the House lottery amendment after Tuesday’s session and would be open for discussion. Tindell stated that he was not against a state lottery and would be open to discussing the matter in conference as long as the fantasy sport portion is preserved. Another notable House action was:

-Members voted against funding Planned Parenthood’s state Medicaid program.
A bill to combine the state’s Medicaid program and the departments of Human Services and Rehabilitation Services was heatedly debated. It was later amended to remove the Rehabilitation agency and examine the possibility of combining Medicaid and Human Services. A bill that would make any documented case of domestic violence a ground for divorce was passed with overwhelming support. Contributing: Adam Ganucheau