General Funds; FY2024 appropriation to Town of Decatur for purchase of two patrol vehicles and equipment.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will have a direct impact on local law enforcement operations by providing them with modern patrol vehicles that are essential for effective policing. Enhanced mobility allows officers to respond more quickly to incidents and improves overall public safety. The funding underscores state support for local governments, demonstrating an investment in community safety and law enforcement preparedness.
Summary
Senate Bill 2976 is an appropriation act aimed at funding the Town of Decatur for the fiscal year 2024. The bill allocates a total of $125,000 from the State General Fund specifically for the purchase of two patrol vehicles and the necessary equipment for the local law enforcement agency. The funding is presented as essential to support the operational needs of Decatur's police force, enhancing public safety and law enforcement capabilities within the community.
Contention
While the bill appears straightforward in its funding intention, potential contention could arise from debates regarding budget priorities at the state level, especially considering the allocation from the State General Fund amid various competing interests. Some stakeholders may argue for a more comprehensive approach to funding law enforcement, which includes additional resources for community programs and training, rather than solely focusing on physical equipment. Moreover, such appropriations might raise discussions on the adequacy of ongoing funding for operational costs associated with the new patrol vehicles.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.