MS HB779

Revises the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund to allow combined funding sources (state, federal, state aid road funds, and Local System Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program funds) for road and bridge projects within the discretion of the State Aid Engineer.

Prohibits Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund monies from being used to reimburse amounts already expended on projects prior to fund award and requires distributed funds to remain with recipients rather than return to State Treasury.

Extends exceptions to budget spending limitations during the last year of county board terms for projects receiving funds from the Local System Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program, Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund, 2018 Transportation and Infrastructure Improvement Fund, or Gulf Coast Restoration Fund until January 1, 2020.

Allows county boards of supervisors to award road and bridge contracts exempt from the 30-day contract termination limit if the contracts are exempt from spending restrictions under Section 19-11-27.