State agencies; transfer MS Athletic Commission and Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission to Secretary of State.
Impact
If enacted, SB2061 will fundamentally change the governance of events related to athletics, specifically boxing and wrestling matches, which were previously overseen by the Mississippi Athletic Commission. The bill enables the Secretary of State to issue rules regarding these matches, potentially leading to a more standardized and efficient regulatory framework. Additionally, the educational and commemorative efforts concerning the Civil War, which were managed by a dedicated commission, would now fall under the office of the Secretary of State, impacting the strategic focus and funding allocation for historical awareness efforts in Mississippi.
Summary
Senate Bill 2061 proposes to consolidate the regulatory functions of the Mississippi Athletic Commission and the Mississippi Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission into the Office of the Secretary of State. This transfer is aimed at streamlining operations and reducing the bureaucratic overhead associated with these commissions. The bill seeks to abolish these entities as standalone bodies by July 1, 2022, transferring all responsibilities, powers, personnel, and funds to the Secretary of State's office, which is tasked with overseeing these functions henceforth.
Contention
Some stakeholders may view this consolidation as a reduction in specialized oversight for the discussed areas. Critics might express concerns that the breadth of responsibilities falling under the Secretary of State could dilute focus and resources necessary for both athletic oversight and historical commemorative activities. There's apprehension regarding the incorporation of these functions into a single office which may not possess the specific expertise that dedicated commissions previously provided, potentially affecting the quality of both athletic regulation and civil war commemoration efforts in the state.
To increase the compensation members of the State Athletic Commission may receive for their attendance and participation in the commission’s public meetings.