MississippiSB 30922026 Regular SessionSenate

Appropriation; Fair and Coliseum Commission - Livestock shows.

Sponsored By: W. Briggs Hopson III (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Appropriations BAppropriations AAppropriations

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

More money for livestock and rodeo shows

For the fiscal year from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, the law provides $1.2 million for Dixie National Livestock Show costs, including prizes and judges. It also provides $64,890 for junior livestock roundup shows and $22,000 for State Fair livestock premiums. Senior-division State Fair classes use a ranking system that places entries first, second, third, fourth, and so on. The law provides $14,150 for high school rodeo winners’ national finals expenses, $12,000 for junior high rodeo winners’ expenses, and $50,000 for the Southern Cutting Futurity Championship.

State bids favor Mississippi blind industries

Beginning July 1, 2026, the agriculture department must prefer Mississippi Industries for the Blind when two or more bids match in price, quality, and service. A similar preference applies when the department buys without competitive bids.

New grant funding for agriculture department

Beginning July 1, 2026, the agriculture department can accept and spend grants, donations, and contributions to cover operating costs. Federal fund escalations cannot exceed $1 million. Before an escalation takes effect, the Commissioner must notify listed state officials by the 15th day of the prior month and explain its reason, amount, and planned use.

Rules for county and youth show prizes

For fiscal year 2027, the law provides $30,000 for approved county shows, up to $2,000 per county, plus $65,000 for five district shows and $8,500 for five state dairy shows. County shows need adequate barns and pens and a county association that guarantees at least $1,500 for awards; after premiums are paid, the association can claim 25% of that guarantee, up to $500. Two qualifying shows in one county may split funds equally when an adjoining county has no fair, but their total remains capped at $2,000. District and dairy funds pay premiums only, and at least 75% of their combined funding must support 4-H, Smith-Hughes, and other youth exhibitors. Comparable entries must receive equal premiums; district shows may be held in fall, and state-funded shows must avoid date conflicts. Show managers must report exhibitor counts and class results to the Department within 15 days after each show. At year-end, leftover show funds can move among awards, but no county show can receive more than $1,000 through these transfers.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

W. Briggs Hopson III
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Juan Barnett
Democratic • Senate
Dennis DeBar, Jr.
Republican • Senate
Scott DeLano
Republican • Senate
Michael McLendon
Republican • Senate
Daniel H. Sparks
Republican • Senate
Benjamin Suber
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 166 • No: 1

House vote • 3/12/2026

Passed

Yes: 115 • No: 1

Senate vote • 2/19/2026