Mississippi House Bill HB491

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24
• Refer: 1/23/24
• Failed: 3/27/24

Caption

Appropriation; Prentiss to assist with purchase of a fire truck for Ingram Volunteer Fire Department.

Impact

The enactment of HB 491 will provide critical financial resources to local authorities, specifically in Prentiss County, reaffirming the state's commitment to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness. The allocated funds are intended to alleviate the financial burden associated with the purchase of essential firefighting equipment, thus enabling the Ingram Volunteer Fire Department to operate more efficiently and effectively. This appropriation can potentially lead to better fire response times and improved safety standards in the community.

Summary

House Bill 491 proposes an appropriation of $425,000 to assist the Board of Supervisors of Prentiss County in purchasing a fire truck for the Ingram Volunteer Fire Department. This funding is aimed at bolstering the fire service capabilities within the county, enhancing emergency response efforts, and ensuring public safety. The bill outlines the allocation for the fiscal year 2025, which will commence on July 1, 2024, and conclude on June 30, 2025. The funds will be drawn from the State General Fund, which indicates financial support from the state for local emergency services.

Contention

While the bill appears to be straightforward in its intention to provide funding for a fire truck, discussions surrounding its approval might involve debates over budget allocations and priorities. Some legislators could argue that more funding should be directed towards broader statewide initiatives or that economic constraints should be considered before approving such appropriations. However, there are likely supporters who will advocate for the necessity of reliable fire services and the importance of adequately equipping volunteer departments to serve their communities.