MS
Mississippi Senate Bill SB3102
Mississippi 2026 Regular Session
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Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB3102

Introduced
2/17/26  
Refer
2/17/26  
Engrossed
2/19/26  
Refer
2/25/26  

Caption

Appropriation; Tourism, Department of.

Impact

The approval of SB 3102 will directly influence the budgetary framework of the Mississippi Department of Tourism, greatly enhancing its ability to execute various initiatives. The funding allocated for 'Personal Services' shows a planned effort to maintain adequate staffing levels, allowing the department to effectively manage its responsibilities while increasing its outreach for tourism promotion. Specific amounts are also earmarked for cultural heritage areas and events, reinforcing the importance of local history and attractions in receiving funding, which aligns with broader economic development goals.

Summary

Senate Bill 3102 proposes an appropriation for the Mississippi Department of Tourism for the fiscal year 2027, allocating a total of $28,906,613. This includes $6,046,716 from the State General Fund and $22,859,897 from other special funds. The bill is intended to cover operational expenses, employee salaries, and tourism promotion initiatives aimed at enhancing Mississippi's appeal as a travel destination. This significant allocation underscores the state's commitment to fostering growth in its tourism sector, which is vital for the local economy.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 3102 is optimistic, with stakeholders emphasizing the critical role that tourism revenue plays in Mississippi's economy. Many in the tourism industry view the legislative support for increased funding as a necessary step to ensuring the state's tourism sector can compete effectively with neighboring regions. However, there are underlying concerns that the heavy reliance on government funding for tourism may not be a sustainable long-term strategy, and discussions may continue regarding the balance between state support and private sector investment.

Contention

While the bill generally enjoys support, notable contention arises around the potential for misallocation of funds and the effectiveness of advertising expenditures. Critics have questioned how transparency and accountability will be upheld in the management of the appropriated amounts. Additionally, there are discussions about the need to measure the return on investment for tourism marketing campaigns, as stakeholders call for more concrete strategies to utilize funds efficiently and effectively to maximize economic return.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB3055

Appropriation; Tourism, Department of.

MS HB19

Appropriation; Health, Department of.

MS SB2042

Appropriation; Audit, Department of.

MS SB2044

Appropriation; Finance and Administration, Department of.

MS HB22

Appropriation; Insurance, Department of.

MS SB2032

Appropriation; Information Technology Services, Department of.

MS SB2012

Appropriation; Employment Security, Department of.

MS SB2036

Appropriation; Revenue, Department of.

MS HB1

Appropriation; Archives and History, Department of.

MS HB42

Appropriation; Education, Department of.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

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, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

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, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.

PA SB280

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, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.