Mississippi House Bill HB969

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/25
• Refer: 1/17/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

IHL Board; extend repealer on authority to oversee certain construction projects funded by state general obligation bonds.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will allow the Board to keep exercising its authority over construction projects, which is important for ensuring that state institutions of higher learning are able to manage their facilities effectively. The ability to administer and approve such contracts gives the board significant control over financial disbursement and accountability related to these projects. This extension also facilitates the ongoing planning and execution of necessary infrastructure improvements that support educational environments across the state.

Summary

House Bill 969 seeks to amend Section 37-101-15 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to extend the date for the repeal of a provision that allows the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning to administer contracts related to construction and maintenance projects funded by state general obligation bonds. This amendment is crucial for ensuring that the board can continue to oversee these contracts without interruption, thereby maintaining a level of continuity in the management of higher education infrastructure projects in the state.

Contention

Although no specific opposition is noted in the documents reviewed, this bill reflects broader discussions regarding the governance and management of higher education institutions in Mississippi. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on the extent of power that should be retained by the Board of Trustees versus individual institutions, particularly in how construction projects are conducted and funded. The provision for appeals to the Public Procurement Review Board in instances of disputes also underscores potential contention around oversight and accountability in the procurement process.