Commemorate the legacy of Mississippi Representative Icey Day the "Father of Mississippi Industries for the Blind."
Summary
Senate Resolution 99 is a commemorative resolution honoring the life and legacy of former Mississippi Representative Icey Day of Attala County on the 70th anniversary of his death. The resolution recognizes Day as the founder of the Mississippi Industries for the Blind (MIB) and recounts his long service in the Mississippi House of Representatives, his own blindness, and his role in advancing employment and vocational opportunities for Mississippians who are blind or visually impaired.
The resolution also highlights the historical development of state services for blind Mississippians, including the creation of the Mississippi Commission for the Blind and the later establishment of MIB. It praises MIB’s mission as a preferred employer for visually impaired individuals and emphasizes the organization’s role in providing training, assistance, and technology that support independence and self-reliance. The resolution directs that copies be sent to MIB leadership, the Governor, the Icey W. Day Memorial Building, and the Capitol Press Corps.
Impact
SR99 does not change substantive state law or create new legal obligations. Its effect is ceremonial and expressive: it formally places the Senate on record honoring Icey Day and affirming support for the Mississippi Industries for the Blind and its employment mission. The resolution may reinforce public recognition of MIB and related services for blind and visually impaired Mississippians, but it does not amend statutes, appropriate funds, or alter agency authority.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and respectful. The Senate adopted SR99 unanimously, 51-0, indicating broad bipartisan agreement and no recorded opposition. The language of the resolution is laudatory throughout, emphasizing Day’s public service, his personal example, and the continuing value of MIB’s work.
Contention
There is no evident policy contention in the bill text or voting history. Because SR99 is a commemorative resolution, it does not appear to have generated debate over funding, agency structure, or legal change. The only substantive emphasis is on recognition of Icey Day’s legacy and praise for MIB’s role as an employer and support provider for visually impaired Mississippians.