MS HB1729

Appropriates $3,555,266 from the State General Fund and $256,844,716 from special funds for the Department of Marine Resources for fiscal year 2026 (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026)

Authorizes 108 permanent positions and 65 time-limited positions, with Marine Conservation Officers receiving up to $600 annually for uniform allowances

Allocates $11,700,000 from the Tidelands Fund for public access projects ($4,576,165), management projects ($4,576,164), bond repayment ($1,547,671), and prior year projects ($1,000,000)

Designates $92,725,224 from Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) funds for 75 specific coastal projects including sewer improvements, hurricane mitigation, oyster restoration, marina expansions, drainage improvements, and environmental monitoring across Mississippi's coastal counties

Authorizes up to $10,000,000 in additional GOMESA funds that may become available during fiscal year 2026, and permits payment of up to $408,657.40 for expenses incurred in prior fiscal years