Ellington

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — The state economist says Mississippi continues to have "sluggish" growth that trails the Southeast and the nation.

Darrin Webb tells lawmakers Wednesday that he expects data will show Mississippi's economy grew about 1 percent in 2015, following no growth in 2014 and a contraction in 2013.

The national economy grew 2.4 percent growth last year — the same rate as 2014 and slightly higher than 2013.

State Treasurer Lynn Fitch says Mississippi is well below its constitutional debt limit.

However, the state ranks 14th highest in the nation for tax-supported debt per person. She says that's a list where being 50th is best.

Fitch says credit agencies see low education attainment and high poverty as challenges for Mississippi.

Webb also says because of education, the state has "limited human capital."