Mississippi Senate Bill SB2034

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Failed: 2/22/23

Caption

Bonds; authorize to assist Town of Rolling Fork in paying costs of Muddy Waters memorial sculpture.

Impact

The financial implications of SB2034 include the potential issuance of up to $150,000 in general obligation bonds by the State of Mississippi. The bill emphasizes that these bonds will carry the full faith and credit of the state, meaning that the state is irrevocably committed to ensuring their repayment. This legislation aims to bolster local cultural initiatives by providing the necessary funding for the memorial, which could enhance community morale and promote tourism interest in the area as a tribute to an iconic musician.

Summary

Senate Bill 2034 aims to authorize the issuance of state general obligation bonds to provide financial assistance to the Town of Rolling Fork, Mississippi, for costs associated with acquiring and placing a memorial sculpture dedicated to the renowned musician Muddy Waters. The bill outlines the establishment of a special fund specifically for this purpose, which will be managed separately from the state's General Fund. Furthermore, funds not used by the end of the fiscal year in this special account will not revert to the General Fund, ensuring that they remain allocated for the memorial project or related purposes.

Contention

While SB2034 appears to have a straightforward purpose, its passage could raise questions concerning priorities in state funding allocations, especially considering the ongoing needs in various sectors such as education and infrastructure. Some lawmakers may argue about prioritizing funding for a memorial over other pressing state needs. Additionally, the governance structure outlined in the bill gives significant discretion to the Department of Finance and Administration regarding the disbursement of funds, which could lead to local operators feeling inadequately represented in the decision-making process.