General Fund; FY2025 appropriation to Sustainable Energy Partnership Program between JSU and Entergy.
Impact
The enactment of SB3124 would have a significant impact on state laws regarding funding for educational programs in sustainable energy. By providing this level of financial support, the bill aims to encourage academic initiatives that promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. The partnership between Jackson State University and Entergy is expected to foster research and development activities that align with the state's energy goals, potentially leading to a higher number of graduates skilled in sustainable energy technologies.
Summary
Senate Bill 3124 is an appropriation bill that allocates funds for a sustainable energy partnership program between Jackson State University and Entergy Mississippi. The bill specifies an appropriation of $4,300,000 for the fiscal year 2025, which will support the initiatives outlined within the partnership program. This funding is drawn from the state general fund and is intended to facilitate the development and implementation of sustainable energy practices and education programs under the auspices of the university's College of Science, Engineering and Technology.
Contention
As with many appropriation bills, potential points of contention could arise during discussions of funding allocation and the prioritization of the partnership program against other urgent needs within the state. Opponents may express concerns about the adequacy of the funding for the proposed initiatives, calling into question the effectiveness and accountability of how these funds will be utilized within the program. Additionally, the effectiveness of the partnership in meeting state energy goals could be scrutinized, raising debates about the overall direction of Mississippi's energy policy.
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.