Mississippi Code Title 31. Public Business, Bonds and Obligations § 31-7-301

(1) The Legislature hereby declares that it is essential to the efficient operation of public bodies of this state that adequate supplies of goods and services continue to be available from private sources; that the good name and credit of the state may be promoted by timely and responsible payment of just claims; and that fair compensation be awarded suppliers when payments of their claims are delayed without justification.

(2) The term “public bodies” shall mean all state agencies, political subdivisions, school districts, municipalities and public corporations, whether created by charter, statute or executive order, whether supported wholly or in part by public funds, or which expend public funds.