WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 984

Appropriation; Belzoni Humphreys Development Foundation for repairs and restoration work at the Catfish Museum.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Timaka James-Jones

Mississippi bill authorizing state funds to Belzoni Humphreys Development Foundation for Catfish Museum repairs; died in committee February 2025.

Died In Committee
#appropriationsa
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 984

Legislative bill overview

HB 984 is a Mississippi appropriations bill that would allocate state funds to the Belzoni Humphreys Development Foundation for repairs and restoration work at the Catfish Museum. The bill was introduced by Representative Timaka James-Jones but died in committee without advancing to a floor vote.

Why is this important

The Catfish Museum is a regional cultural and tourist attraction in Belzoni, Mississippi, which is known as the "Catfish Capital of the World." State funding for such facilities affects local economic development, tourism revenue, and the preservation of regional heritage. Appropriations bills also reflect legislative priorities regarding public funding allocation.

Potential points of contention

  • Limited state resources: Funding specific local projects through state appropriations can compete with other infrastructure, education, and social service needs statewide
  • Precedent concerns: Targeted appropriations for individual facilities may encourage similar requests from other municipalities, raising questions about equitable fund distribution
  • Private vs. public funding: Stakeholders may debate whether a development foundation should seek private donations or grants rather than relying on general state appropriations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.