Mississippi REALTORS Put Homeowner Concerns In Front Of State Lawmakers

Mississippi homeowners may not realize that the friendly REALTOR^® that just sold them their home is also working behind the scenes as an advocate for their legal rights as property owners. REALTOR^® associations across the country work with legislators on an ongoing basis, making sure that needs of property owners are brought to the forefront.

One of the ways the Mississippi Association of Realtors (MAR) makes sure homeowner concerns are being put in front of lawmakers is to host the annual “REALTOR^® Day at the Capitol.” This event brings more than 200 REALTORS^® from across Mississippi to the state Capitol in Jackson and is held during the legislative session.

REALTORS^® are able to meet informally with influential state officials at the event’s morning coffee hour. They mingle with Mississippi Senators and Representatives who are responsible for introducing and supporting legislation that can impact the lives and bank accounts of homeowners.

The group then moves into the Old MS Supreme Court chambers where more statewide elected officials drop by and are given the opportunity to address the group. This year the group heard from Governor Phil Bryant, Lt. Governor Tate Reeves, Speaker of the House Philip Gunn, Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, Treasurer Lynn Fitch and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney.

Elected officials talked about the progress of some of their own legislative priorities, thanked the REALTORS^® for their input and participation in the process and stressed the importance of REALTOR^® support of their communities and the political process.

During this session the Mississippi Senate and House Legislators of the Year were honored, REALTORS^® were given information about the current legislative priorities and tips were offered for speaking with their legislators.

The personal contact of members with their legislators and reinforcement of legislative priorities helped to yield one of the most successful legislative sessions for the Mississippi REALTORS^® in many years.