Mississippi, the 20th state admitted to the Union, offers a diverse array of government resources and services designed to meet the needs of its residents. This guide provides an overview of these resources, including state-specific statistics, local offices, state laws, demographics, and geographic context.
State-Specific Statistics and Data
- Population: As of July 1, 2024, Mississippi’s estimated population is 2,943,045, reflecting a slight decrease from the 2020 Census count of 2,961,279. (census.gov)
- Age Distribution: The state has a median age of 36 years, with 22.9% of residents under 18 and 18.0% aged 65 and over. (census.gov)
- Racial Composition: Mississippi’s population is 58.6% White alone and 37.7% Black or African American alone. (census.gov)
- Poverty Rate: The state’s poverty rate stands at 22.3%, higher than the national average of 14.9%. (law.cornell.edu)
- Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH): MDAH offers records management services to state and local agencies, ensuring compliance with state laws on records management. (mdah.ms.gov)
- Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS): ITS manages the state’s Enterprise Security Program, providing coordinated oversight of cybersecurity efforts across all state agencies. (its.ms.gov)
- Mississippi Library Commission (MLC): Established in 1926, MLC serves as the state’s official library agency, maintaining statewide databases and offering resources to public libraries. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service (MCVS): MCVS oversees national service programs and a network of Volunteer Centers, engaging and supporting volunteers across the state. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Mississippi Code of 1972: This comprehensive code outlines state laws, including those related to health, education, and public safety. (law.cornell.edu)
- Senate Bill 2753 (2024): This legislation, known as the “SAFER ACT,” regulates governmental buildings, including requirements for single-sex restrooms and changing facilities. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Median Age: 36 years
- Age Distribution:
- Racial Composition:
- Poverty Rate: 22.3%
- Poverty Rate: Mississippi’s poverty rate of 22.3% is significantly higher than the national average of 14.9%. (law.cornell.edu)
- Educational Attainment: Approximately 81% of Mississippians over the age of 25 are high school graduates, and 20% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, both below the national averages of 85.7% and 28.5%, respectively. (law.cornell.edu)
- MS.GOV Connect: The official mobile app offering immediate access to essential government resources, online services, and information. (ms.gov)
- MISSI Chatbot: Mississippi’s first government chatbot, available 24/7 to assist with questions and direct users to appropriate state agencies and online services. (ms.gov)
- State Government Telephone Directory: An online directory provided by the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services, offering contact information for state agencies and employees. (its.ms.gov)
Local Resources, Offices, and Contacts
Mississippi provides various resources to assist its residents:
State Laws, Regulations, and Policies
Mississippi’s legal framework encompasses various regulations:
Demographics and Population Data
– Under 18: 22.9%
– 65 and over: 18.0%
– White alone: 58.6%
– Black or African American alone: 37.7%
Geographic and Regional Context
Mississippi is located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordered by Louisiana to the west, Arkansas to the north, Tennessee to the north and east, Alabama to the east, and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. The state’s diverse geography includes the Mississippi Delta, the Gulf Coast, and the Appalachian foothills.
Comparisons with National Averages
Practical Information and Resources
Residents and visitors can access various government services through the following platforms:
By leveraging these resources, Mississippi residents can effectively navigate the state’s government services and stay informed about state laws, regulations, and policies.