Mississippi House Bill HB1346

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 2/22/23

Caption

Appropriation; IHL Board for funding repair, renovation or improvement of existing infrastructure of universities.

Impact

The approved funds under HB1346 are intended specifically for enhancing the physical infrastructure of universities without facilitating expansion through new buildings or increased square footage. While universities will have discretion over the use of the funds, the guidelines specify that the funds cannot be used under the oversight of the Bureau of Building, Grounds and Real Property Management. The bill ensures that states funds allocated through this act will not diminish the existing support provided through state bonds or other financial appropriations designated for capital improvements.

Summary

House Bill 1346 appropriates a total of $100 million from the Capital Expense Fund for the fiscal year 2024 to support state institutions of higher learning in Mississippi. The legislation is aimed at facilitating the repair, renovation, or improvement of existing infrastructure on university campuses. This financial provision empowers the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning to distribute these funds on a pro-rata basis, ensuring that each of the state-supported universities receives a fair share based on their general support appropriation.

Contention

The bill may encounter scrutiny regarding the use and monitoring of appropriated funds, particularly since it grants institutions considerable autonomy without state oversight. Critics may argue that the lack of regulatory supervision could lead to misallocation of resources. Supporters, however, contend that providing universities with more control over funding will foster innovation in managing their facilities and infrastructure effectively. Overall, discussions around HB1346 will likely focus on the balance between autonomy for institutions and the need for accountability in the expenditure of public funds.