Mississippi House Bill HB648

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

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

Caption

State park fee; authorize MDWFP to provide discount to senior citizens age 65 and older.

Impact

This bill has a direct impact on state laws regarding the operation of state parks, specifically by integrating a permanent discount for seniors. As part of the legislation, the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks is empowered to set admission fees, with a mandated 10% discount for the specified age group. This initiative is expected to improve accessibility for older residents, allowing them to participate more actively in recreational activities.

Summary

House Bill 648 amends Section 55-3-33 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 by authorizing the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to provide discounts on admissions to state parks for senior citizens aged 65 years and older. This new provision aims to promote outdoor recreational activities by encouraging more seniors to visit and utilize state parks, enhancing their enjoyment of natural resources while also supporting state tourism efforts.

Contention

There could be potential contention surrounding the funding implications of this bill. While supportive voices may argue that this initiative encourages senior participation in state parks, others might express concerns about the loss in revenue from discounting fees. Opponents could argue that this could lead to budgetary deficits for the parks if not properly managed or financed, raising questions about how the funds will be allocated and sustained in light of the new discounts. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the program in attracting more visitors may also be an area of debate among stakeholders.