Mississippi Senate Bill SB2825

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

State agencies; prohibit radio and TV advertising to promote agency programs except in certain instances.

Impact

The introduction of SB2825 will impact various state codes, particularly Mississippi Code of 1972, focusing on how state agencies handle public communications and advertising. The bill ensures that state agencies cannot unilaterally decide to allocate funds for advertisements, thereby centralizing control over advertising expenditures. In cases involving federal funds that require advertising as part of grant agreements, specific provisions are made to allow compliance with such requirements, albeit under strict documentation guidelines and procedural oversight.

Summary

Senate Bill 2825 proposes significant changes to advertising practices of state agencies in Mississippi. Specifically, it prohibits these agencies from using appropriated funds to promote their programs through radio and television advertisements, except in certain specified circumstances. This measure aims to restrict expenditures associated with promotional advertising, introducing a framework intended to streamline state agency budget allocations towards advertising efforts. Additionally, the bill mandates that advertising contracts engage a standard bidding process to ensure transparency and proper financial management.

Contention

Notably, the bill also includes a provision that prohibits individuals who are candidates for public office from using their name, image, or voice in any public advertising related to state-administered programs funded by public money. This clause has the potential to generate controversy, as it raises questions about political freedom and public engagement. Critics may argue that such restrictions could inhibit candidates from communicating important public messages during critical election periods, while proponents believe it is a necessary measure to prevent the misuse of public resources for political gain. The balance between effective governance and electoral fairness is expected to be a focal point of discussion surrounding SB2825.