Mississippi Senate Bill SR46

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/23/23
• Refer: 2/23/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23

Caption

Recognize national defense operations and installations in Mississippi and the mission of the Defense Communities Development Council.

Impact

The resolution also addresses the employment of over 36,538 military and civilian personnel across various installations in Mississippi, including significant bases such as Keesler Air Force Base and NASA’s Stennis Space Center. This military footprint is not only a matter of national security but also translates into a strong economic foundation for the surrounding communities. The resolution expresses a commitment to maintaining and enhancing these defense missions, particularly as discussions continue about potential changes to military installations and funding that could affect local infrastructure and community services.

Summary

Senate Resolution 46 (SR46) acknowledges and supports the significant contributions of defense missions and military installations located throughout the state of Mississippi. The resolution recognizes the vital role these entities play in ensuring national security and enhancing the local economy. Specifically, it highlights how U.S. Department of Defense spending in Mississippi amounted to $5.6 billion, which represents 4.3% of the state's GDP in the 2021 fiscal year. This financial impact underscores the importance of the military presence in the state and its benefits to community development.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR46 appears to be largely positive and supportive, with a strong emphasis on community pride and recognition of the sacrifices made by military personnel. Senators advocating for the resolution reflect a desire to foster continuous cooperation between local communities and the Department of Defense, encouraging dialogue to retain and expand defense roles in Mississippi. The unified front exhibited in the resolution is indicative of a bipartisan recognition of the importance of military bases and their associated missions.

Contention

Despite its positive reception, there could be underlying points of contention related to how future changes in defense strategies or budget allocations might impact local communities. Discussions about the resolution may raise awareness of the balance between national defense needs and local community priorities, especially in the context of potential restructurings within military operations. Should the Department of Defense initiate adjustments that affect personnel or funding, local leaders may need to engage in advocacy to sustain the benefits that military presence brings to their economic landscape.