RELEASE:
MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS TO HOST HEARINGS ON THE STATE BUDGET
The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) is deeply concerned over the state’s current fiscal situation. It is becoming clear that the state will be unable to adequately fund basic services thanks to a series of corporate tax cuts. It is also evident that many legislators, in both parties, lacked sufficient information and details related to a number of the budget bills passed at the end of the 2016 session.
In order to get a better understanding of the situation, the MLBC is hosting a budget hearing on June 8, 2016 at 10 am in Room 113 at the State Capitol. This hearing will focus on the state’s public health and mental health programs.
Specifically, Caucus members are asking presenters to address the following issues:
1. The Impact of mid-year, FY 16 budget cuts on their agencies.
2. Agency plans to handle reduced funding under the FY 17 budget;
and
3. The effects of the Budget Transparency and Simplification Act on their budget and services.
It is our hope that this and subsequent hearings will allow lawmakers to better understand the current budget situation and allow us to more accurately address constituent concerns.
But most importantly, members of the MLBC will seek to greater input from agency heads and policy experts to ensure state government is able to provide necessary services in the most efficient manner.
WHAT: The MLBC is hosting a Legislative Budget Hearing on Mississippi’s public health agencies.
WHEN: Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at 10am.
WHERE: Committee Room 113 at the Mississippi State Capitol.
WHO: Dr. Mary Currier, Mississippi’s State Health Officer, and other state and local experts will present and answer member questions.
CONTACT: Rep. Sonya Williams-Barnes at 228.326-8819 or Rep. Jarvis Dortch at 601.983.9346.
6/7/16
Magnolia Tribune
