MS HB1591

Appropriates $2,201,650.00 from the State General Fund to the Public Utilities Staff for fiscal year 2019 (July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019).

Authorizes 28 permanent full-time positions for the Public Utilities Staff.

Requires the agency to ensure that "Personal Services" funding for fiscal year 2020 does not exceed fiscal year 2019 appropriated levels unless new programs or positions are added by the Legislature.

Directs the State Personnel Board to prevent any personnel actions that would cause the agency to exceed projected annual costs or appropriated levels, with limited exceptions for escalated funds and benchmark awards.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.