Mississippi Auditor Highlights Year of Oversight and Reforms

The Mississippi Office of the State Auditor released its Year in Review, highlighting efforts to improve government accountability and transparency. Auditor Shad White emphasized initiatives to better manage education spending and strengthen cybersecurity.

White pointed out that Mississippi has the lowest-paid teachers and assistant teachers in the nation, despite spending more on administration than any other Southern state. He added that teacher salaries are worth the same as they were in 2008 when adjusted for inflation, calling for increased pay.

The auditor’s office found that teacher purchase cards for classroom supplies do not activate until after most schools have already started the year. White said these cards need to activate earlier to allow teachers sufficient time to prepare their classrooms.

For the first time, the office began seizing sales tax revenue from municipalities behind on audits. White said this move ensures transparency and accountability in local government spending.

White announced the “Defend the ‘Sip Fellowship,” a program allowing law graduates awaiting military training to gain experience at the auditor’s office before deployment.

The review revealed that nearly one-third of state agencies fail cybersecurity requirements. These agencies have been informed and are working to improve their defenses against hackers.

The office also found that tenured college professors teach fewer students than non-tenured faculty, despite higher pay. Additionally, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning lack data on faculty activities like research and community service.

White’s team discovered that DeSoto Crime Stoppers received hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars without evidence of assisting law enforcement in solving crimes.

Looking ahead, White announced a legislative agenda focused on addressing illegal immigration, reducing government waste, and establishing a reward program for whistleblowers reporting corruption.

White expressed pride in the office’s accomplishments and commitment to serving Mississippi taxpayers.