Mississippi Development Authority; require to conduct review of infrastructures in counties with high rates of poverty.

HB 198 requires the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) to annually study public infrastructure conditions - such as roads, water systems, and utilities - in the 20 counties with the highest poverty rates in Mississippi. It mandates the MDA to report findings to the legislature by December 31 each year and provide guidance to these counties on accessing federal and state grants or loans for infrastructure improvements. The bill directly affects the 20 designated counties and the MDA, which must now formalize this review process. This creates a structured mechanism for identifying and addressing infrastructure gaps in economically disadvantaged areas.