As concerns about cybercrime continue to grow in Mississippi, the state’s lieutenant governor has announced a new select committee focused on protecting government systems, providing more resources to law enforcement, and reviewing penalties for cybercriminals.
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, a Republican who oversees the Senate, announced Thursday plans for the Senate Select Committee on Cybersecurity.
“Too many Mississippians find themselves the victims of cybercrime,” Hosemann said. “Criminals are using technology to steal identities, target state assets, and exploit vulnerable individuals. We have a responsibility to ensure our laws keep pace with these evolving threats and provide law enforcement with the tools needed to protect Mississippians.”
The select committee will be co-chaired by Sens. Bart Williams, R-Starkville, and Tyler McCaughn, R-Newton. Other members include Sens. Bradford Blackmon, D-Canton; Scott DeLano, R-Biloxi; Jeremy England, R-Vancleave; and Rod Hickman, D-Macon.
The committee will begin holding hearings this fall before developing recommendations to be considered by the full Senate during the 2027 legislative session.
The announcement comes as FBI data shows a sharp national increase in cybercrime losses in recent years. Americans reported more than $16 billion in losses from internet crime in 2024, a 33% increase from the previous year, according to the FBI.
While Mississippi has one of the nation’s lowest rates of reported cybercrime, according to a recent data privacy survey, State Auditor Shad White released a report in October 2025 showing nearly one-third of state agencies were vulnerable to hacking after failing to meet cybersecurity assessment requirements.