“Unconfirmed!” MDWFP Commissioner Appointment Stalls In Senate Before Adjournment

JACKSON –  The Mississippi Legislature decided to adjourn sine die on Saturday, but not before completing one last chore. The approval of Leonard Bentz, the MDWFP commission appointee of Governor Tate Reeves.

Governor Leonard Bentz was appointed to a second term as commissioner, which would run from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2028. Before the 2024 legislature session adjourned, his appointment was not confirmed.

Regarding Bentz’s confirmation, Sen. Neil Whaley, the chairman of the Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Commission, has not replied.

The Governor’s office should respond to inquiries regarding Bentz’s status and confirmation, according to MDWFP Executive Director Lynn Posey.

The position falls vacant when the legislature adjourns if the senate fails to approve an appointment, as per Mississippi Code Section 7-1-35 and Attorney General decisions.

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The governor cannot nominate someone to the job until the next time the senate is in session since the unconfirmed individual is unable to carry out the duties of the office.

According to the Mississippi Code, a nominated official’s prior actions that were not approved by the Senate remain unaffected.

Bentz received a citation in April for using bait to hunt turkeys while visiting a guest’s property. The only other party with knowledge of the case’s events is him.

On May 16, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., MDWFP will have its May commission meeting at its Jackson offices. There will be a memorial service for fallen officers that morning at 10 a.m.