Appropriation; Development Authority, Mississippi.
What changed between versions
Total appropriations for the Mississippi Development Authority were significantly increased, raising the personal services budget from $13.1 million to $16.2 million and the total fiscal year budget from $188 million to $296 million.
New specific funding was added for the Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area ($100,000), the Mississippi Hills National Heritage Area ($100,000), and the Mississippi River Parkway Commission ($20,025).
New funding was allocated for the Mississippi Book Festival ($50,000) and the Mississippi Main Street Association ($500,000).
A new $800,000 appropriation was added to support state welcome center operations.
Funding for Mississippi Tourism Advertising and Promotion was increased to $4.8 million, including $299,000 for Tourism Grant Development Awards.
The Mississippi Site Development Grant Fund allocation was reduced from $40 million to $14 million, while the Capital Expense Fund allocation was removed entirely.
The number of authorized permanent employees was increased from 106 to 162, and time-limited positions were increased from 36 to 43.
The effective date clause was simplified to state the act takes effect on July 1, 2026, removing the previous language about repealing the act on June 30, 2026.
New requirements were added to authorize two new project management headcounts and to provide specific funding for the Mississippi Main Street Association.
