Transportation (Ports)

SB 2047 reauthorizes the expenditure of $68.7 million in unspent Gulf Coast Restoration Funds for specific coastal restoration and development projects in Mississippi. The bill directs funds to cities (like Gulfport, Long Beach, and Ocean Springs), counties (including Pearl River and Harrison), redevelopment authorities, universities (such as Mississippi State University), and organizations for projects including harbor restoration, road improvements, downtown revitalization, and economic development sites. It does not create new funding but reallocates leftover funds from prior fiscal years to continue previously authorized projects, such as the Long Beach Harbor Complex Restoration and the Mississippi Cyber Center. The bill was signed into law by the governor on June 2, 2025, and applies to fiscal year 2026.

HB 16 approves $30,185,481 in state funds for the Yellow Creek State Inland Port Authority to cover its fiscal year 2026 expenses (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026). It allocates $15 million for capital projects and $50,000 for overtime pay, while requiring the authority to maintain detailed financial records and give preference to Mississippi Industries for the Blind in purchasing decisions. The bill, signed into law on June 4, 2025, is a funding appropriation with no new policy provisions.