The Mississippi Constitution requires the legislature to convene on the first Tuesday after the first Monday of each January. Legislators come to Jackson prepared to work on legislation that they consider important for our state. A lot of the legislation introduced and considered has a direct impact on Mississippi’s automotive franchised dealers, and MADA is committed to having a strong voice on legislation matters.
This year’s session has produced an avalanche of legislation — more than 2,500 bills introduced — and many have the potential to affect Mississippi businesses.
Bills can move quickly; sometimes, amendments appear without warning, and well-intentioned ideas can turn harmful. That is why MADA maintains a constant, hands-on presence at the Capitol and why our lobbyist reviews every single bill filed during the session to determine whether it could impact franchised automobile dealers.
Many of the measures tracked by MADA touch on tax policy, insurance, labor issues, data privacy and automotive. Just as important as advancing good policy is stopping bad policy before it becomes law.
During this session, several proposals have risen to the top of MADA’s “kill list” because of the serious risks they pose to dealerships, employees and consumers.
One such proposal, HB 1056, would make it illegal for individuals who are not U.S. citizens to receive a vehicle title. If passed, this bill would prevent dealers from selling vehicles to Mississippians who legally reside and work in the state under temporary work visas — even if they hold a valid Mississippi driver’s license.
Another bill of concern, HB 1178, would prohibit motor vehicle dealers from sharing customer lists or personal information with third parties. While consumer data protection is important, this proposal fails to recognize how modern dealerships operate. Dealers rely on trusted third-party vendors for financing, compliance, warranties, marketing and technology services. This bill could severely disrupt dealership operations while offering little practical benefit to consumers.
HB 1451 brings forward key sections of Mississippi’s franchise law for possible amendment. Franchise law has long provided stability and balance between manufacturers and dealers. MADA is closely monitoring this bill due to its potential to alter foundational protections that franchised dealers rely on to operate and invest in their communities.
Finally, SB 2015 establishes broad consumer data privacy rights in state law and creates a private cause of action for any consumer whose data is breached — regardless of fault or circumstances. This bill could dramatically increase liability exposure for dealers and other Mississippi businesses, even in cases involving sophisticated cyberattacks beyond a company’s control.
Being “at the table” matters. When MADA is present, lawmakers have access to expertise from an industry that employs thousands of Mississippians, generates significant tax revenue and serves communities in every corner of the state. Our presence allows us to educate legislators early, correct misinformation and ensure that decisions are made with a full understanding of their impact.
The 2026 legislative session is a reminder that advocacy is not just about playing offense; it is about defense. It is about monitoring, responding and, when necessary, pushing back on proposals that would harm Mississippi’s franchised automobile dealers.
MADA’s strong presence at the Capitol is essential, and it is one of the most valuable services your association provides.
