Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB600

Introduced
1/13/26  
Refer
1/13/26  

Caption

Appropriation; Rust College for establishing new academic programs and completing renovation of a residential facility.

Impact

The bill impacts state laws related to educational funding and appropriations. By directing state funds towards the enhancement of educational programs, it underscores the state's commitment to investing in higher education and supporting institutions that cater to diverse fields of study. Establishing a dual degree program could foster greater student engagement in STEM fields, while the film studies program could cater to interests in the arts and media, thus expanding the college's educational scope significantly.

Summary

House Bill 600 proposes an appropriation of $2,025,000 from the State General Fund to the Board of Trustees of Rust College for the fiscal year 2027. The funds are specifically allocated for two key purposes: establishing two new academic programs, namely a dual degree program in engineering and a film studies program, and for the completion of renovation work on the residential facility known as Gross Hall. This financial support is critical as Rust College aims to enhance its educational offerings and improve campus facilities for its students.

Contention

While the bill seems poised for a positive reception overall, some concerns may arise around the prioritization of funds. Critics may question whether the allocation of such a significant amount to a single institution may come at the expense of other educational initiatives or institutions in the state that may also require funding for similar enhancements. Ensuring transparency and equity in funding allocation across the state's educational institutions may be a point of contention during deliberations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1915

Appropriation; Rust College for establishing new academic programs and completing renovation of a residential facility.

MS HB1799

Appropriation; IHL for repairs and renovations of facilities on campus of Alcorn State.

MS SB3253

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to Knox Academy for the renovation and equipment of its facilities.

MS HB833

Appropriation; Town of Bolton for renovations of facilities of the police department.

MS HB1860

Appropriation; Town of Pickens for repairs and renovations to City Hall.

MS HB1796

Appropriation; IHL for repairs and renovations to residence halls at Alcorn State University.

MS HB409

Appropriation; IHL for making restorations and renovations on certain projects at JSU, ASU and MVSU.

MS HB1910

Appropriation; IHL for repairs and renovations to the Rose McCoy Auditorium at JSU.

MS HB1911

Appropriation; IHL for repairs and renovations to the T.B. Ellis Building at JSU.

MS HB1946

Appropriation; IHL for renovations and safety projects at Jackson State University.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.