MS HB1108

Amends Section 41-3-16.1 to allow rural water associations that provide sewer services to participate in the ARPA Rural Water Associations Infrastructure Grant Program for drinking water infrastructure projects.

Establishes a grant ranking system based on environmental impact, regulatory compliance, economic development, population served, disadvantaged communities, prior funding efforts, cost-sharing, operational capacity, and construction timeline.

Limits maximum grant funding to any single rural water association to $2,500,000 and caps administrative costs at 5% of appropriated funds.

Brings forward Section 49-2-131 (Mississippi Municipality and County Water Infrastructure Grant Program) for potential amendment, which provides matching grants to municipalities, counties, and certain public utilities for water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure using ARPA funds.

Establishes reporting requirements to the Lieutenant Governor, Speaker of the House, and appropriations committee chairs, with funds available through December 31, 2026, or the federal deadline, whichever is later.