Mississippi House Bill HB1120

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Bulletproof Vests Revolving Fund; create.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1120 is expected to significantly impact local law enforcement agencies by offering a dedicated funding source specifically aimed at acquiring bulletproof vests. By creating this revolving fund, smaller departments, especially those serving populations under 15,000 and gradually increasing the eligibility to larger departments, can ensure their officers are properly equipped with essential safety gear. This is particularly important in the context of rising concerns about officer safety and the increased risks faced by law enforcement personnel on duty.

Summary

House Bill 1120 aims to establish a Bulletproof Vests Revolving Fund within the State Treasury to support local law enforcement agencies. This fund will be administered by the Department of Public Safety, providing financial assistance for the matching requirement associated with the Department of Justice's Vest Partnership Grant Act of 1998. The proposed annual appropriation for this fund is $250,000, highlighting a legislative effort to enhance the safety and protection of law enforcement personnel in Mississippi.

Contention

While the bill generally enjoys support due to its focus on enhancing public safety, there could be discussions around the allocation and sufficiency of the $250,000 funding. Stakeholders might debate the adequacy of this amount given the varying needs of law enforcement agencies across different regions. Some may argue that more resources should be made available to ensure all local agencies can remain compliant with safety standards and adequately protect their officers. Overall, the bill reflects a move towards prioritizing local law enforcement safety while balancing the financial implications for state budgeting.