MS HC95

Urges U.S. Congress to pass H.R. 3249, the Mid-Mississippi Conservation, Recreation and Development Act of 2015, sponsored by Representative Gregg Harper and cosponsors.

Addresses revenue losses for Scott, Smith, Jasper and Newton Counties caused by the 178,542-acre Bienville National Forest, which generates no local tax revenue.

Notes that federal aid programs including Federal Payment in Lieu of Taxes, timber harvest revenue, and Secure Rural Schools funding have declined annually by 7.8% since 1990 and fail to adequately compensate counties.

H.R. 3249 would convey approximately 8,307 acres of Bienville National Forest (Oakohay/Little Oakohay Lake area in Smith County) to the Pat Harrison Waterway District for public use and economic development without monetary consideration.

Directs copies of the resolution to be sent to the U.S. President, Congress members, state legislative leaders, and media outlets.