Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB3145

Introduced
2/18/26  
Refer
2/18/26  

Caption

General Fund; FY2027 appropriation to the City of Hattiesburg for the installation of Wi-Fi hotspots.

Impact

This bill represents a significant step towards advancing digital infrastructure in Hattiesburg. By facilitating the installation of Wi-Fi hotspots, SB3145 aims to bridge the digital divide within the community, especially in areas where reliable internet access may currently be lacking. Supporters of the bill argue that improved connectivity will not only benefit residents by enhancing educational opportunities but will also support local businesses that increasingly rely on digital interfaces to thrive in a modern economy.

Summary

Senate Bill 3145 is an appropriations act designed to allocate funds specifically for the City of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, aimed at enhancing community connectivity through the installation of Wi-Fi hotspots. The proposed budget for this initiative is set at $10,000 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and concluding on June 30, 2027. This financial support is intended to defray the costs associated with establishing Wi-Fi access points across various locations in the city, thus improving public access to the internet, which has become essential for education, business, and day-to-day activities.

Conclusion

Overall, Senate Bill 3145 is positioned to foster a more connected community in Hattiesburg through the establishment of Wi-Fi hotspots, laying the groundwork for future digital engagement. As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implementation will be scrutinized to ensure it meets the intended goals of expanding internet access and benefiting residents and businesses alike.

Contention

While the bill may find broad support within certain community circles, there is a potential for contention regarding the amount of funding and the prioritization of resources. Critics may question the effectiveness of such an investment relative to other pressing needs within the city. Additionally, discussions could arise around the maintenance of the hotspots, ensuring they remain functional and widely accessible, thus raising questions about the long-term sustainability of the initiative.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB3154

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the City of Florence for a water well.

MS SB3241

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to City of Forest for sewer rehabilitation.

MS SB3178

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the City of Drew for road repair.

MS SB3093

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the City of Cleveland for the purchase of a firetruck.

MS SB3065

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the City of West Point for street paving.

MS SB2936

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to City of Wiggins for the purchase of a fire truck and related equipment.

MS SB3107

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the City of Indianola for parks and recreation safety.

MS SB2980

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to City of Guntown for street repairs.

MS SB2935

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to City of Byram for drainage projects.

MS SB3109

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the City of Indianola for law enforcement safety equipment.

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.