Bill > HB1734

This bill is an appropriations measure allocating funds for the Public Utilities Staff for fiscal year 2026. The bill appropriates $2,565,843.00 from the State General Fund to cover the agency's primary expenses, and an additional $80,000.00 from a special fund specifically for the Atlas Project. The bill authorizes 24 permanent positions for the agency and includes detailed provisions governing personnel expenses, ensuring that salary increases are controlled and that funds are used appropriately. The legislation mandates that the agency maintain comprehensive accounting records, submit budget requests with specific formatting, and comply with state financial regulations. The bill also includes a preference for purchasing from Mississippi Industries for the Blind when comparing equal bids and emphasizes that the agency cannot spend beyond its appropriated funds. The appropriation will take effect on July 1, 2025, and provides guidelines for how the State Treasurer and State Fiscal Officer should process and distribute the allocated funds, with careful oversight to prevent fiscal mismanagement.

Budget and Finance

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1734.xml