Mississippi House Bill HB801

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/23/22

Caption

Bonds; authorize issuance to assist Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance with repair of building and parking lot.

Impact

The financial provisions within HB801 highlight a commitment to supporting minority farmers by providing necessary funds that can enhance their operational capacity through facility improvements. This legislative effort not only targets infrastructural support but also indicates a broader recognition of the contributions that minority farming communities make to the state’s agriculture sector. By allocating up to $150,000 for this purpose, the bill seeks to alleviate financial burdens that may hinder operational effectiveness and growth for these farmers.

Summary

House Bill 801 aims to authorize the issuance of state general obligation bonds specifically to assist the Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance in covering costs associated with the repair of its building and parking lot located in Monroe County, Mississippi. The bill establishes a dedicated fund, titled the '2022 Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance Building Repair Fund,' which will be maintained separately from the state's General Fund. This ensures that any unspent funds at the fiscal year's end do not lapse into the General Fund but remain available for the Alliance's use.

Contention

While supporting minority farmers is largely viewed positively, there could be concerns regarding the sourcing of funds for these bonds, as they represent a state commitment that may impact future budget allocations. The reliance on bonds may raise discussions on the adequacy of current funding mechanisms for agricultural support and whether the state should prioritize direct grants over loans through bonds. Stakeholders may question the balance of state resources and how this support is positioned against other agricultural priorities, potentially leading to debates on equity and distribution of state resources across various farming communities.