MS SR108

Commends District 21 State Senator Barbara Blackmon for her distinguished service in the Mississippi Senate as she announces her retirement from the legislature.

Recognizes her representation of Senate District 21 (Attala, Holmes, Leake, Madison, and Yazoo Counties) since 2016 and her previous service from 1992 to 2004.

Acknowledges her work increasing funding for state colleges and universities, supporting the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, and serving as an advocate for senior citizens and children on healthcare policies.

Highlights her appointments to the Senate Finance Committee (as Vice Chair), Legislative Budget Committee (first female from State Senate), and as the first African American in the Senate to chair an Appropriations Committee subcommittee overseeing over $350 million in agency budgets.

Notes her extensive community service including roles with the National Black Caucus of States Institute, Jackson State University Foundation, United Way of the Capitol Area, and her philanthropic contributions of over $2.75 million with her husband to educational institutions.