Bill > HB1895

This bill appropriates $78,569,033 to the Mississippi State Port Authority at Gulfport for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, to cover its operational expenses. The bill also authorizes 39 permanent positions for the Port Authority and specifies that funds should not be used to replace federal or other special funds for salaries. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining detailed accounting and personnel records, similar to the previous fiscal year, and requires budget requests for the following year to be submitted in a comparable format. Furthermore, the bill mandates a preference for purchases from the Mississippi Industries for the Blind when bids are equal in price, quality, and service, and when purchases are made without competitive bids. A portion of the appropriation, $135,000, is specifically allocated for overtime, callback, or standby pay. The Port Authority is directed to expend these funds only on activities directly related to its port operations, and all expenditures must comply with state law, ensuring that obligations do not exceed the appropriation, with responsible officers held accountable for any violations. The funds will be disbursed through bank checks as provided by law, and the act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB1895.xml