Appropriation; Lee and Monroe Counties for funding The National Resource Camp pilot program.
Impact
The passing of HB 513 is expected to enhance educational initiatives related to natural resource management in the specified counties, potentially leading to increased awareness and empowerment of local communities regarding environmental sustainability. By funding the Natural Resource Camp, the bill aligns with broader educational and environmental goals, encouraging stewardship of natural resources among young residents and fostering their appreciation for local ecology.
Summary
House Bill 513 is an appropriation bill introduced in the Mississippi Legislature aiming to allocate funding for the Natural Resource Camp pilot program in Lee and Monroe Counties. The bill proposes a total of $50,000 to be appropriated from the State General Fund for the fiscal year 2025, beginning on July 1, 2024, and ending on June 30, 2025. This funding is directed towards the Boards of Supervisors of both counties for the specific purpose of supporting the pilot program, which is presumably focused on educating participants about natural resources and conservation efforts.
Contention
Notably, while the funding for this program is relatively modest, it could raise discussions regarding the effectiveness and reach of such pilot programs. Some legislators and community members may question whether this investment is sufficient to address comprehensive environmental education needs in the counties, or if similar initiatives in other regions of the state might necessitate comparable funding allocations. Additionally, the reliance on state funds for local programs may lead to debates about ongoing financial support and sustainability of the initiative beyond the initial appropriated amount.
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.