Bill > HB1726

This bill is an appropriations act that provides funding and sets guidelines for the Mississippi State Forestry Commission for the fiscal year 2026. The bill allocates $17,274,665.00 from the State General Fund and an additional $13,495,131.00 from special source funds to support the commission's operations. The appropriation authorizes 246 permanent positions and 7 time-limited positions for the agency. The bill includes detailed provisions regarding personnel expenses, mandating that the agency cannot exceed its fiscal year 2026 personal services budget without legislative approval and must adhere to specific salary and hiring guidelines set by the State Personnel Board. The legislation also establishes performance targets for the Forestry Commission, including forest protection metrics such as fire suppression time, acres burned under prescribed burn programs, and forest management goals like regenerating forestry lands and monitoring forest health. Additionally, the bill requires the commission to maintain detailed accounting records, transfer $200,000 to the Department of Agriculture for a Beaver Control Program, and give preference to Mississippi Industries for the Blind when purchasing commodities or equipment. The appropriation will take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to ensure efficient and effective use of state funds to support the Forestry Commission's mission.

Budget and Finance

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1726.xml