Southwest Rankin News
Florence Police Department to receive $500,000 in technology funds
Special to Florence News
U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith recently announced the benefits for Mississippi included in the FY2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) Appropriations Bill, which was passed by the Senate on Thursday, January 15. The bill now heads to President Trump for his consideration.
Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said the CJS funding bill will support law enforcement, economic development, scientific research and other national priorities. The City of Florence Public Safety Technology and Equipment Upgrades in the amount of $500,000 were included in the line items. They plan to purchase new body cameras and body armor, as well as car radar and car computers.
“We filed a compelling proposal to the office of Senator Hyde-Smith to address these needed additions and upgrades to the department,” said Florence Alderman Mason Herrin.
“Senator Hyde-Smith was successful in including our request as part of the FY2026 CJS appropriations bill. I am pleased to announce that, as of this afternoon [January 15], the Senate has passed this legislation with overwhelming support.”
A release on the bill stated that the enactment of this three-bill package will mean Congress has approved six of the twelve annual appropriations bills for FY2026. HR.6938 spends $10 billion less than if these agencies were funded under a continuing resolution. Congress had until January 30 to act on the remaining FY2026 funding bills before the current resolution expires.
“As a result, the City of Florence Police Department will soon receive $500,000 in federal funding to support these technology and equipment upgrades,” Herrin said. “It is important to note that this grant is a 0% match, meaning the City of Florence does not have to exhaust any general funds associated with the receipt of these grant funds.”
Florence Mayor Trey Gunn said that his office received notification in late January that they will be getting funds starting in four to six weeks. The money will be spent on body and car cameras, radar, and computers for police cars.