MS HB726

Amends Section 45-11-7 to authorize counties and municipalities to use at least 25% of fire protection funds for recurring expenses rather than capital expenditures.

Requires the Commissioner of Insurance to establish standard guidelines for the use and accountability of municipal and county fire protection funds distributed under Sections 83-1-37 and 83-1-39.

Brings forward Section 83-1-37 (Municipal Fire Protection Fund) providing $4,850,000 annually plus growth-based allocations from insurance premium taxes to eligible municipalities on a population basis.

Brings forward Section 83-1-39 (County Volunteer Fire Department Fund) providing $4,850,000 annually plus growth-based allocations to counties for fire protection purposes including training, equipment, and service contracts.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.