Appropriation; Prentiss to assist with purchase of a fire truck for Ingram Volunteer Fire Department.
Impact
The enactment of HB 491 will provide critical financial resources to local authorities, specifically in Prentiss County, reaffirming the state's commitment to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness. The allocated funds are intended to alleviate the financial burden associated with the purchase of essential firefighting equipment, thus enabling the Ingram Volunteer Fire Department to operate more efficiently and effectively. This appropriation can potentially lead to better fire response times and improved safety standards in the community.
Summary
House Bill 491 proposes an appropriation of $425,000 to assist the Board of Supervisors of Prentiss County in purchasing a fire truck for the Ingram Volunteer Fire Department. This funding is aimed at bolstering the fire service capabilities within the county, enhancing emergency response efforts, and ensuring public safety. The bill outlines the allocation for the fiscal year 2025, which will commence on July 1, 2024, and conclude on June 30, 2025. The funds will be drawn from the State General Fund, which indicates financial support from the state for local emergency services.
Contention
While the bill appears to be straightforward in its intention to provide funding for a fire truck, discussions surrounding its approval might involve debates over budget allocations and priorities. Some legislators could argue that more funding should be directed towards broader statewide initiatives or that economic constraints should be considered before approving such appropriations. However, there are likely supporters who will advocate for the necessity of reliable fire services and the importance of adequately equipping volunteer departments to serve their communities.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.