HONORING JASMINE BARNES, CPA

HONORING JASMINE BARNES, CPA

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 46 (Thursday, March 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 46 (Thursday, March 12, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E211-E212] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JASMINE BARNES, CPA ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Thursday, March 12, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Jasmine Barnes, CPA, a financial strategist, senior audit leader, and civic servant whose work exemplifies integrity, accountability, and service to the public good. With more than a decade of experience across public accounting, financial institutions, and state government, Ms. Barnes has earned distinction for translating complex financial data into actionable insight that strengthens governance and protects taxpayer resources. Ms. Barnes currently serves as Deputy Director of Internal Audit at the Mississippi Department of Transportation, where she oversees federally funded transportation programs, indirect cost compliance, overhead rate reviews, and multimodal project closeouts. Her leadership ensures cost allowability under federal regulations, reinforces audit integrity, and safeguards public funding across complex state and federal initiatives. She has completed hundreds of compliance reviews and routinely analyzes legislative measures impacting transportation finance and audit oversight. In addition to her public service, Ms. Barnes is the Founder and Principal of J Barnes CPA, PLLC, where she advises individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations on tax resolution, compliance strategy, and financial systems improvement. Through negotiated settlements and proactive planning, she has secured more than $110,000 in cumulative client savings while helping organizations build sustainable, compliant financial operations. Previously, Ms. Barnes held senior audit roles at Trustmark Bank and HORNE LLP, where she led internal, external, and compliance audits, conducted risk assessments, and strengthened regulatory preparedness across financial institutions while mentoring emerging professionals. In 2025, Ms. Barnes entered the political arena, securing the Democratic nomination for Jackson City Council, Ward 1, on a five- pillar platform centered on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, public safety, economic development, and recreation. Her campaign marked a historic milestone for Ward 1 and highlighted her commitment to principled, solutions-oriented leadership. Ms. Barnes is a 2024 Mississippi Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 honoree and a recipient of the 2025 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Dave G. Campbell Quality Award. She is a graduate of the University of Mississippi and is currently pursuing her Executive MBA at Millsaps College. Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Barnes remains deeply committed to mentorship, financial literacy, and educational engagement. She is a proud parent to her two sons, Kingston and Atlas, and believes that policy, professionalism, and purpose must work together to build stronger communities. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Ms. Jasmine Barnes, CPA, for her exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the people of Mississippi. Her work reflects the high standard of public stewardship our communities deserve. [[Page E212]] ____________________