Veterans

HB 39 appropriates $84,693,202 for Mississippi's Veterans' Home Purchase Board to cover operational expenses and fund new home loans for veterans during fiscal year 2026. It specifically allocates $1,528,917 for personnel costs, including salaries, fringe benefits, and vacancy funding to fill authorized positions, with strict rules preventing salary increases beyond the budgeted amount. The bill requires the Board to maintain detailed financial records, prioritize contracts with Mississippi Industries for the Blind when bidding is equal, and comply with state budgeting laws. This directly affects veterans seeking home loans through the Board and the Board's staff managing these funds.

HB 6 appropriates $361,546 from the State General Fund and $344,758 from the Grand Gulf Military Monument Commission's special fund to cover the operation, maintenance, and building repairs of the Grand Gulf Military Monument during the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The bill restricts personnel spending to authorized salaries, fringe benefits, and filling vacancies (with $290,170 allocated for these purposes), requiring strict compliance with state personnel rules and budget limits.

SB 2034 appropriates $173.6 million in state funds for Mississippi National Guard operations during fiscal year 2026 (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026). It covers general expenses ($9.5 million), military programs ($164 million), and specific initiatives like the Youth Challenge Program ($2.3 million), Armed Forces Museum ($663,124), and the Sonny Montgomery Center ($300,000). The funding comes from general state funds, specialized accounts (e.g., Camp Shelby Timber Fund), and $4 million redirected from the Education Enhancement Fund. This is a routine budget allocation with no new policy requirements, solely authorizing financial support for existing Guard activities and facilities.