Mississippi Senate Bill SB3188

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/26/24
• Refer: 3/26/24
• Failed: 3/27/24

Caption

General Fund; FY2025 appropriation to Newton County for rural fire department expenses.

Impact

The approval and enactment of SB3188 will directly impact the funding available to rural fire departments in Newton County. By providing financial resources, the bill supports public safety initiatives and ensures that the fire departments can maintain their operations effectively. The allocation of these funds is essential in enabling the departments to coverExpenses that may include equipment maintenance, personnel costs, training, and community outreach programs, thereby strengthening overall emergency response capabilities in the region.

Summary

Senate Bill 3188 is an appropriation bill aimed at funding rural fire department expenses for Newton County, Mississippi, during the fiscal year 2025. The bill allocates a total of $150,000 from the State General Fund, with specific amounts designated for each of the four fire departments in the county. The Beulah Hubbard Fire Department is allocated $75,000, while the remaining funds will be equally distributed among the Conehatta, Hickory, and Chunky fire departments. This funding is intended to support the operational costs necessary for effective fire service delivery in these rural areas, enhancing their capacity to respond to emergencies.

Contention

There may be discussions surrounding the allocation of funds, particularly concerning whether the amount specified in SB3188 adequately addresses the operational needs of each fire department. Potential points of contention could arise regarding the distribution of funds—whether the split among the departments is equitable and if the amount supplied is sufficient, given the specific needs and circumstances of each fire service. Additionally, scrutiny may occur on the effectiveness of state appropriations for local emergency services within the context of broader budgetary priorities for public safety across Mississippi.